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Fayetteville paid tribute on Saturday to the men and women who have defended the nation’s freedom at its fourth annual Veterans Day Parade.
Staff photo by Marc HallEighty-three-year-old Lew Sims, a World War II Army Air Corps veteran, rides with his wife Ruth during Saturday's parade |
Edward Lee enlisted during World War I and served in an all-black division, Allen said.
"Things were a lot different then; we were segregated," he said. "And still he went out and served his country. I’ve always admired him for that."
Allen pointed out three other men in the crowd who served with him in Vietnam.
"You think about a lot of people around this time, too many to count," he said.
The crowd cheered and waved as two A-10 Thunderbolts and a C-130 Hercules cargo plane flew over the parade.
Thousands lined Hay Street in downtown to pay tribute to the nation’s veterans and the men and women serving in the war against terrorism.
"There is definitely a lot more patriotism this year, because of Sept. 11," Troy Dickens said. "The attacks had a real impact on this country. A lot of people have woken up."
Dickens served 22 years in the Army. He was impressed by the students in the JROTC programs.
"We need more young people showing interest in the military," Dickens said. "Especially now, with all that’s going on."
The number of groups, floats and bands in this year’s parade reached 120, the highest ever.
The entries included veterans service organizations, military alumni groups, high school marching bands and Rolling Thunder, a veterans motorcycle club.
The Army Nurse Corps served as the grand marshal.
Fort Bragg’s 82nd Airborne Division Band and 82nd Color Guard marched and Pope Air Force Base provided military vehicles.
Some participants wore vintage military uniforms. Marching bands from E.E. Smith, Cape Fear, Jack Britt and Westover high schools performed.
"There were a few more high school marching bands this year and other entries," said Jackie Tuckey, community relations coordinator for the Fayetteville Parks and Recreation. "We also had a bigger crowd this year and everyone looked great, very colorful."
Mayor-elect Marshall Pitts, Jr., said he had a great time at the parade and that it was a much needed lift from the terrorist attacks two months ago.
Elizabeth Dole, a candidate for the Republican Senate nomination, was also in attendance. She shook hands with people in the crowd and did a little politicking. Dole, a former director of the American Red Cross, is seeking to succeed retiring Sen. Jesse Helms.
Dickens said he was glad to see so many people celebrating and showing respect for veterans’ service to the nation.
"We all did a good job, and we’re lucky to be alive," Dickens said.
Staff writer Aesha Duval can be reached at (910) 323-4848 ext. 280 or duvala@fayettevillenc.com
