On Nov. 11, Veterans Day, those who served in the U.S. armed forces and defended their country are recognized for their efforts and sacrifices. Southern California organizations hold parades and other events on the national holiday and on other days surrounding it.
The San Fernando Valley Veterans Day Parade began in 2004, and continues to grow in size each year. The parade starts at 11:11 a.m., marking the World War I armistice that was declared "at the eleventh minute, of the eleventh hour, on the eleventh day of the eleventh month." The parade features military bands, high school marching bands, equestrians, and more than 60 veterans groups whose members have served in conflicts ranging from World War II to Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2009, the parade's honorary grand marshal was U.S. Navy Admiral Michael Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The parade route starts at the intersection of Laurel Canyon and San Fernando Mission Boulevard, and ends at the Richie Valens Recreation Center.
San Fernando Valley Veterans Day Parade
San Fernando, CA 91340
818-837-7767
sfvveteransdayparade.com
Since 1996, the desert resort of Palm Springs has held a parade on Veterans Day, with attendance of up to 20,000 people. Many residents have military backgrounds or have loved ones in the service: More than 11,000 sailors and Marines are stationed nearby at Twentynine Palms, the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center. The parade begins downtown at Ramon Road and Palm Canyon. A fireworks display is held in the evening.
Palm Springs Veterans Day Parade
Palm Springs, CA 92262
760- 323-8272
ci.palm-springs.ca.us
A different theme pertaining to veterans is featured each year in the Nov. 11 Veterans Day parade, which is led by an honorary grand marshal. Events are not limited to Veterans Day, but last an entire week, including a Veteran of the Year celebration at the Veterans Museum and Memorial Center. Activities include a Veterans Walk at VFW Post 2111. The parade route starts at Cedar Street and the Pacific Coast Highway, and is only two blocks from the Santa Fe Depot. The Blue Line trolley stops on the route. Parking meters in the vicinity are not enforced on Veterans Day.
Veterans Village of San Diego
4141 Pacific Highway
San Diego, CA 92110
sdvetparade.org
