By 1808Delaware
Delaware is gearing up for one of the most anticipated events of the year – the Delaware Community Veterans Parade. Mark your calendar for Sunday, November 3 at 3:00 PM, as the city comes together to honor the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The parade will kick off at the Delaware County Fairgrounds and make its way to Wilmer Street, wrapping up at the OWU campus.
This year, Major General John C. Harris, Jr. will serve as the honorary Grand Marshal. A decorated leader, General Harris brings a distinguished military background to the forefront of this community gathering, embodying the spirit of service and dedication that Delaware seeks to celebrate.
Honoring Veterans from WWII to Operation Enduring Freedom
The 2024 Delaware Community Veterans Parade has a special focus on Operation Enduring Freedom veterans, Iraq veterans, and WWII veterans. This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, a pivotal WWII battle remembered for the heroism of American forces against overwhelming odds. Veterans and their support groups from all conflicts are invited to participate, celebrate, and reflect on the sacrifices made to protect the nation’s freedoms.
Community members are encouraged to nominate a veteran to serve as a Grand Marshal on the parade’s official website, underscoring the event’s mission to involve the community actively.
Pre-Parade Social: A Warm Welcome for Our Heroes
For those wanting to extend their gratitude to veterans, the Veterans Social & Ceremony will be held before the parade from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM at the Junior Fair Building, located at 236 Pennsylvania Avenue. Open to the public, this pre-parade gathering offers a chance for camaraderie, light refreshments, and entertainment provided by Dennis Smith & Friends. This event is a heartwarming opportunity to personally thank veterans and spend time with them, sharing stories and building connections.
The Veterans Social is an ideal setting for families, friends, and community members to express appreciation for those who have dedicated their lives to service. It promises an atmosphere of unity and respect, with moments to recognize both veterans and their families for the sacrifices they have made.
Parade Day: Rain or Shine, Delaware Celebrates
The parade itself will begin promptly at 3:00 PM, regardless of the weather. Delaware residents are encouraged to line the streets, waving flags and showing support for the veterans marching or riding through the city. The parade route will take the procession through downtown Delaware, concluding near Ohio Wesleyan University, ensuring there are ample viewing spots for spectators of all ages.
Parade organizers emphasize that this is a family-friendly event designed for everyone to enjoy. Attendees are urged to bring flags, wear red, white, and blue, and share in the spirit of patriotism that the parade fosters. With the promise of various displays and musical tributes, the parade is a spectacle that underscores Delaware’s commitment to honoring veterans.
Staying Connected and Getting Involved
The Delaware Community Veterans Parade invites all to participate, volunteer, sponsor, or attend, creating a truly community-driven experience. For more details on the event or to find out how to get involved, visit the official website at DelawareOhVeteransParade.com. Additional updates, including the specific parade route, can be found on their Facebook page @DelawareCommunityVeteransParade. You can also reach out with questions via email at [email protected].
For those interested in registering to be part of the parade, forms are available online, at the VSO Office on North Sandusky Street, and at the Main Branch of the Delaware County Library.
By attending or participating in this year’s parade, the Delaware community can come together in a powerful show of respect and admiration for veterans, commemorating their service and sacrifices with pride and gratitude.
