Sunflower Salute Veterans Day Parade honors those who served - WIBW

Honoring a Tradition of Service

“Topeka, the Capital City, has a long-time track record of supporting Veterans,” Grand Marshal Paul Schneider said, pointing to a legacy stretching from World War II to the local medical facilities that still care for those who served.

That spirit filled the skies over Kansas as the Sunflower Salute Veterans Day Parade brought marching bands, high school JROTC groups, and vintage military vehicles into the streets, WIBW reported.

Boy Scout Connects Event to Grandfather

For participants and spectators alike, the procession offered a chance to connect generational experiences.

Adam Yokum, a Boy Scout of America, watched the units pass with a specific family member in mind. “My grandpa means a lot,” Yokum said. “He tried to help our country, and I feel like he should be appreciated by that.”

Passing the Torch to Youth

Organizers emphasize that this recognition carries a deliberate mission for the future.

Patrick Moore, a parade committee member and veteran, noted the ongoing responsibility of remembrance. “It takes a lot to keep our country strong and safe, and without people that are willing to sacrifice and serve, we may not ever have that,” Moore said. “So, we got to pass that along down to the younger generations.”

Rooted in Capital History

That connection to history runs deep in the capital city.

Topeka’s civic identity is closely tied to Harry Colmery, who started up what later became the G.I. Bill in 1944 as he was serving in WWII.

Veterans Stress Ongoing Commitment as Event Concludes

As the floats cleared and the crowds dispersed, participants stressed that the event represents an ongoing commitment rather than a single day of observance.

Leon Dultmeier, a member of the Topeka Rolling Thunder Military Vehicle Preservation Association and a veteran himself, put the objective simply as the event drew to a close: “Let’s look at the future. Let’s keep our country strong, you know, keep our country strong.”