November 16, 2007

Veterans Day in San Jose

Veterans Day parade paid tribute to the nation’s heroes

By Bill Highlander
Editor

“Veterans Day is dedicated to the extraordinary Americans who protected our freedom in years past, and to those who protect it today. They represent the very best of our nation. Every Soldier, Sailor, Airman, Marine, and Coast Guardsman has earned the lasting gratitude of the American people, and their service and sacrifice will be remembered forever.”

The appreciation was sincere as veterans were honored in the San Jose parade on Nov. 11. Photo by Dan Miranda

—President George W. Bush

The appreciation was sincere as veterans were honored in the San Jose parade on Nov. 11. Heroes, bands, boy and girl scouts, public officials, classic cars and vintage military vehicles marched through the streets of the downtown. The parade has been held every year since 1919, sponsored by the United Veterans Council, the city of San Jose, and the county of Santa Clara.

Major General Irene Trowell-Harris, U.S. Air Force (Retired), was the grand marshal. Harris was the first Afro-American to become a general officer in the National Guard. A registered nurse, Harris formed the Center for Women Veterans at the VA Health facility in Palo Alto. The general noted there are 24 million living veterans and she said “Thank you for your commitment and service to the nation.”

Captain James Allen Taylor, Medal of Honor recipient from the Vietnam War, was an honorary grand marshal. Additional honorary grand marshals were two Japanese-American veterans of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, one of the most decorated units in WW II.

The Marine Corp ROTC program participated in San Jose’s annual Veteran’s Day Parade, which took place on Sunday, Nov. 11. Photo by Dan Miranda

Public officials expressing their gratitude and appreciation to veterans included Rep. Zoe Lofgren, who said, “It was important to let our veterans know how much we appreciate them.” She further noted that recently Congress passed the largest funding increase for veterans in history.

Mayor Chuck Reed, a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy and the father of a daughter who is a jet pilot on active duty, voiced his appreciation to veterans. Six San Jose City Council members joined him. Mayor and council people from adjoining cities were also represented.

Supervisor Pete McHugh said, “W owe a debt of gratitude to those who have served.”

District Attorney Delores Carr echoed those sentiments and said she grew up in an Army family and also that her husband was a Marine who served two tours in Vietnam.

The crowd applauded loudly as the various parade units passed by. The on-lookers especially enjoyed the California Repercussions. The annual Veterans Day parade is the largest in Northern California.

Official, national ceremonies for Veterans Day take place around the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington Cemetery. The 3d U.S. Infantry (The Old Guard) keeps day and night vigil to honor all Americans who died in wars. At 11 a.m. on Nov. 11, a combined color guard representing all military services executes "Present Arms" at the tomb. The nation's tribute to its war dead is symbolized by the laying of a presidential wreath and the playing of "Taps."

The Sons of Union Soldiers of the Civil War shoot off a 21-gun salute. Photo by Kymberli Brady	Sights from the San Jose Veterans’ Day Parade included saluting veterans.