Flags, families and tens of thousands of spectators will line Main Street in Auburn for the 52nd annual Veterans Day Parade at 11 a.m. on Saturday.<\/p>\n
The parade proceeds west on Main Street from E Street to A Street Northwest near Auburn City Hall over a period of approximately 2½ hours.<\/p>\n
A C-17 flyover from McChord Air Force base is anticipated to roar over Main Street at 11.<\/p>\n
The City of Auburn celebrates the 51st anniversary of the signature event, which started in 1965. Over the years, Auburn’s Veterans Parade has become one of the largest of its kind west of the Mississippi River. The National Veterans Day Committee and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs selected Auburn as one of the few regional sites for Veterans Day observance this year.<\/p>\n
Saturday’s parade will pay special tribute to the Fleet Reserve Association, which will be showcased at the front of the parade, following its chosen Grand Marshal, Jorge Ramirez. The Fleet Reserve is a congressionally chartered, nonprofit organization consisting of retired, active duty and veterans of the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. The Fleet Reserve was chartered in 1924. The organization lobbies to preserve the benefits that have been awarded to the Naval Services, and it is active in community activities.<\/p>\n
Auburn, a Vietnam War commemorative partner, also will pay special tribute to the service, valor and sacrifice of those who served in that war.<\/p>\n
The parade features more than 200 entries and nearly 6,000 parade participants showcasing American strength of will, endurance and purpose. The parade will offer 30 marching bands, including the 56th First Corps Army Band, Navy Band Northwest and the 133D Washington National Guard Band.<\/p>\n
Spectators will be treated to several local Junior ROTC units, honor guards, military units and antique military vehicles. Spectators will also enjoy the procession of veteran units, drill teams, community and scouting groups, intermixed with floats, antique and classic cars, and other entries of interest.<\/p>\n
Spectators are advised to arrive early, bring a folding chair, a flag, their best salute and plenty of tissue.<\/p>\n
Free, covered parking is available at the Auburn Transit Station parking garage and various lots and side streets in the downtown area.<\/p>\n
Parade emcee, Morgan Chesky of KOMO 4 will be at the corner of Main and Division. KOMO’s Lee Stoll will emcee at the corner of Main and B Street NE.<\/p>\n