Never Forget, The 92nd Anniversary

Photographs of the Veteran’s Day Parade
 

Every November the United War Veteran’s Council puts on a parade to commemorate the brave men and women of our nation’s armed services, and, every year, they choose a different theme. The theme last year was, “Never Forget,” a sentiment especially important considering the many anniversaries it witnessed. Not only did the 11-11-11 parade mark the 92nd anniversary of the very first New York City Veteran’s Day Parade– which itself celebrated the end of World War I–it marked 10 years since September 11th, and the start of our war in Afghanistan. It marked 50 years since the beginning of major American military involvement in Vietnam in 1961, and 70 since the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941. With these many milestones, it truly was a time for remembering.
With its rich history and its powerful mission, the New York City Veteran’s Day Parade has always held a very special place in my heart. Of the hundreds of photos I took to document the day, I am sharing a few more below. I hope they give a sense of the immensity of the occasion, and its importance, not only to those being honored, but to all of us who enjoy the fruits of their labor.
This year’s theme was a good one: may we Never Forget.

New York City’s Veteran’s Day Parade, 11-11-11

Photographs of the Veteran’s Day Parade

Every November since 1919, New York City has held a parade to honor our nation’s veterans. With an average of 25,000 people in attendance, it is easily the the most popular event of its kind in the country.

Veterans of every war since WWII, come from across the United States, from every branch of our military, to participate. This year, I am pleased to say, I was able to document the celebration.

Over the course of the day, as the procession marched up 5th Ave, I shot over 600 photographs, some of my favorites of which I’ll share below.

I saw thousands of heroes last month, and as I took these pictures, I was reminded continually of the courage, the comradery, the grace, and the selflessness each of them had shown by serving our country. Truly, their service is one of our nation’s greatest treasures.

I hope that I have captured the excitement and the joy of the parade, as well as the solemnity of the occasion. November 11th is a special day for all of us, one that reminds us of the sacrifices others have made, and are still making, on our behalf. May we never forget those who put themselves in harm’s way to defend our country.