The eleventh hour

On the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day, of the eleventh month of the year 1918, the “War to End All Wars” ended. Millions were killed, and many more wounded. This day is marked by day of remembrance throughout the world. Here we call it Veterans Day; other nations call it either Armistice Day or Remembrance Day.

When I was in high school, I marched in the Marysville Veterans Day Parade several times. My heart swelled with pride every single time, because I knew that I was helping the veterans know that we appreciated their service.  Even though I don’t march in it anymore, I still go every year to the parade.

As the time approached 11 o’clock, and the beginning of the parade loomed, people criss-crossed across D Street so that they could get to their friends and loved ones. The Beale Air Force Base Honor Guard stood ready to lead the parade, followed by a contingent of Airmen in their standard issue Battle Dress Uniforms (BDU’s). As the time reached 11 o’clock, the airmen stepped off on their left foot and the parade was underway.

The parade was full of assorted clubs and organizations. The school bands and drum lines played with great fervor, and there were flag and drill teams from the participating schools as well.

To my surprise, came an unexpectedly long convoy made up of old military trucks and other vehicles. The E Clampus Vitus (ECV) club carried a large flag in the parade. In ECV fashion, they were scruffy and unshaven but patriotic nonetheless.

I was definitely happy with this parade. However, I wish I was able to march in it again. There was definitely an outpouring of support for our local veterans, and those stationed overseas like my father. As I was watching, I realized how much I missed my dad, and how proud I was of him.

If you missed this years parade, there is always next year, as well as the other parades such as Christmas, Bok Kai, etc.