VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — On Veterans Day, millions of Americans are celebrating those who served our country. Here in Hampton Roads, you have plenty of chances to do the same.
One of the biggest local ceremonies was the annual Tidewater Veterans Day Parade in Virginia Beach, which kicked off at 9 a.m. at the Oceanfront.
This year, more than 120 groups signed up to march or perform during the annual parade. The parade included lots of people in the community, ranging from fleet forces bands to police and high school marching bands.
The parade's path goes down Atlantic Avenue, beginning at 16th Street and ending in front of the Tidewater Veterans Memorial on 19th Street.
Right after the parade, there was a formal ceremony. This service included military and civilian honors to the veterans.
For veteran Craig Werner, Monday's recognition includes all men and women who wore the uniform no matter how many years they served.
“When I stepped out of boot camp, I was already in the Navy and I was in it for good," said Werner.
U.S. Marine Corps veteran Becky Wentworth reflected fondly on her time serving, and she still feels pride today.
"It's the best thing that happened to me for 20 years,” said Wentworth. "Every time we've answered the call to help. That makes me proud to be a Marine and a veteran."
Mack Simons said he thinks Veterans Day truly is for every military member, past and present.
"It's very important to honor the guys that have given the ultimate sacrifice. That's what today's all about, in my humble opinion," said Simons.
If you couldn't make it out to the Oceanfront, there are other events happening as well:
- Another Veterans Day parade will be held in Newport News. It begins on 25th Street at 10 a.m.
- In Norfolk, IKEA is hosting a veterans and military appreciation event. They're giving away gifts and the Norfolk Admirals will be there.
- The Portsmouth Naval Museum is having a Veterans Day salute. They built a full timeline of U.S. naval history.
- And if you want to take a small road trip, the Commonwealth's Veterans Day ceremony will happen in Richmond at the Virginia War Memorial. Governor Ralph Northam will be there to give a keynote address.