Dallas Veterans Day Parade 2010 | November 11, 2010
I grew up in America always knowing that Freedom isn’t free. Freedom comes at a cost. Those who are willing to sacrifice everything they have for their country and serve in the military have my utmost respect, so unsurprisingly, I felt honored to participate in the Veterans Day Parade held annually in Downtown Dallas. The Dallas Veterans Day Commemoration salutes those who are serving, those who have served, and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. 2010 marks the 92nd Anniversary of this solemn event, which began with the armistice of World War I.
Distinguished guests of honors who made an appearance were: Admiral Patrick M. Walsh - Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet (Keynote Military Speaker), Co-Grand Marshal Lieutenant Colonel James Megellas, Co-Grand Marshal Lieutenant Colonel Leonard R. Reeves, Co-Grand Marshal Sergeant R.V. Burgin, and Co-Grand Marshal LCDR Jesse Naul, Jr. These phenomenal men stood outside City Hall beneath a wonderful display of US Flags saluting and waving to each parade participant as they came by.
The Master of Ceremonies for the event was Bill Melton who has served as the MC of this spectacular event for many years. The Parade Announcer was Captain Bob Dickson and the Parade Color Announcer was Jack Schell.
The Parade Lineup began in the old Reunion Arena Parking lot. Upon arriving, there was a sea of floats, ROTC Battalions, marching bands, drill teams, and many more, all in high spirits, anxiously awaiting the parade’s start. While I waited for my convertible to arrive I took a look around. Everyone there was happy and proud of our troops and veterans. Everyone knew and understood the sacrifice that has been and is currently being made and truly appreciates it. It was wonderful, being surrounded by people who didn’t take freedom for granted. Also, I saw some names I recognized: Ducati. I had to get a picture with that truck ;)
When my convertible finally rolled up to me, my jaw dropped. It was a beautiful Black Bentley convertible. The car was absolutely gorgeous and I was so thrilled to get to ride in such a decadent car! The owner of the car, Stewart A. Mercer was extremely amiable and kept my Mom and I company during the whole parade. He was great to talk to and had wonderful stories! I am so grateful to have such a wonderful driver this year, not to mention, a nice ride!
Once the parade kicked off, the fun began! The marching band in from of me was from Samuell HS, which is where my sister went to high school! Everyone in my family felt it was very appropriate. The route through downtown was perfect. We passed El Centro College and Neiman Marcus along with other great sites for civilians to watch.
I love every aspect there is to being in the Veterans Day Parade, but one of my favorite parts of the parade was passing by City Hall. In addition to the amazing crowds and enthusiasm from the spectators, there is a huge screen showing each parade participant as they pass by, along with a news crew recording the parade to air on TV. Seeing everyone’s smiling faces and big waves always brings a bright smile to my face.
Upon the conclusion of the parade, Stewart swung back around and dropped my Mom and I off at Reunion Arena. The US Army infantries were still there and I was honored to get my photo taken with them.
Overall, the parade was an incredible experience. I always love showing my support for Veterans and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
I want to give a big thanks to Mr. Stewart Mercer, the owner of the beautiful Bentley convertible I rode in, those who volunteered and put together the wonderful Parade, and my family, especially my sister and Father who ran after me taking photos :)
Mr. Stewart Mercer and I after the Parade
My wonderful family and I :)
