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Each year on November 11th, the heart of Manhattan comes alive with patriotism and gratitude as the city hosts the largest Veterans Day event in the nation – the New York City Veterans Day Parade. This year, on Saturday, November 11, 2023, the parade will mark its 104th edition, bringing together nearly 20,000 participants and drawing over 400,000 spectators to Fifth Avenue. It's a day when we come together to honor and pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country.

• The Parade Route: The parade kicks off at 9:30 AM, marching up Fifth Avenue from 26th Street (Madison Square Park) to 47th Street, spanning "America's Most Patriotic Mile." The sight of veterans and their supporters, resplendent in uniform, proudly making their way up this iconic avenue, is a truly moving experience.

• Featured Service Branch: This year, the parade spotlights the United States Army, but it's important to note that all service branches are honored and acknowledged during the event.

• Key Anniversaries: The parade will commemorate several significant anniversaries, including the 70th Anniversary of the end of the Korean War, the 50th Anniversary of the withdrawal of combat units from Vietnam, the 40th Anniversary of the Beirut Barracks Bombing in Lebanon and the Grenada Invasion, and the 30th Anniversary of the Battle of Mogadishu in Somalia.

• TV Broadcast and Livestream: For those who can't attend in person, the parade will be broadcast live on WABC in the New York area and streamed online. The TV broadcast will run from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM, so you can join the celebration from the comfort of your own home.

• Wreath Ceremony: Before the parade, a traditional wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the Eternal Light Monument in Madison Square Park from 8:00 AM to 8:45 AM. This solemn moment pays tribute to the fallen and those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.

• Inclusivity and Respect: The parade encourages positive interactions between participants and spectators along the route, as long as they do not impede the procession. The event is a non-partisan, non-political one, emphasizing expressions of support for veterans rather than any political messaging.

• Grand Marshal: This year's Grand Marshal is Lieutenant General (Retired) Mike Linnington, CEO of Wounded Warrior Project. His dedication to serving veterans and wounded warriors makes him a fitting choice for this role. He brings his extensive military experience and commitment to supporting veterans to the forefront of the parade.

• Why You Should Attend: The NYC Veterans Day Parade is a chance to come together as a community and show our appreciation for the servicemen and servicewomen who have dedicated their lives to protecting our country. It's a day filled with pride, honor, and the opportunity to express our gratitude to these heroes.

As you plan your activities for November 11, consider joining the parade, either in person or by watching the broadcast. It's a beautiful and meaningful event that reminds us of the sacrifices made by our veterans and the importance of supporting them on their journey to civilian life. We salute all veterans and hope to see you at this remarkable event on Fifth Avenue.