OLD CITY––For the first time in Philadelphia’s history, a Veterans Day Parade celebrated those who put it all on the line. Thousands turned out.
“I think it’s important because I was in during the Vietnam War, and back then people didn’t like the veterans,” said Bob Holsh, a veteran attending the parade. “It’s about time all veterans are honored.”
About 2,000 servicemen and women from 150 organizations marched in the 1.5-mile parade, which went on for nearly three hours in sunny and cool weather.
“This was organized so veterans could be proud of their service. Those who’ve served before, those who have served recently, and those who will be serving in the future,” said Media Mayor Bob McMahon, who served on the parade’s executive committee.
What made the parade all the more meaningful was the setting of Independence Hall, another reminder of our freedom.
Mayor-elect Jim Kenney was present, in addition to Mayor Michael Nutter and a handful of other dignitaries.
Police on motorcycles began the parade, followed by uniformed horsemen in gleaming silver helmets with black plumes from the Philadelphia City Troop Cavalry, established in 1774. They were followed by dignitaries in classic cars, one of them a Pearl harbor vet.
Vets from recent conflicts back to World War II were on hand, as well as Colonial and Civil War re-enactors, CBS Philadelphia reports.
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