Veterans and community members filled the streets of Springfield on Wednesday morning for the city’s annual Veterans Day Parade.
The procession began at 11 a.m. at the Springfield Technical Community College campus and moved toward City Hall, Western Mass News reported. Attendees gathered to watch marching bands, color guards, and community floats as the parade celebrated service members from both the past and the present.
The event brings together lawmakers, veteran service organizations, and local families to recognize military service in Western Massachusetts. Following the parade, participants gathered at City Hall to hear speeches from community members and veterans before joining a ceremonial wreath laying.
“I try to tell people all the time, America is still the greatest country in the world because of our veterans. And it’s still the greatest country in the world because of their efforts. We’re the greatest country, democracy, strength, hope, and opportunity. And that’s important. Sometimes I think that’s forgotten, especially in our younger generation. Their efforts have allowed us, each and every one of us, to lead the lives we lead, whether good or bad,” Springfield Mayor Sarno told Western Mass News.
The parade’s presence in the city streets highlights the ongoing efforts to maintain historical memory regarding military contributions to American democracy. For the local community, the event acts as a bridge between generations, attempting to ensure that the sacrifices made by service members remain a visible part of the public consciousness.
The ceremony concluded at City Hall with a formal wreath laying to honor those who served.
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