An American flag, hoisted toward the sky by a firetruck, billowed and overlooked Copley Square as numerous veterans and active duty military marched across the city Nov. 9. Boston hosts the parade annually to honor the sacrifice of veterans and thank those who continue to serve.
The Veterans Parade began next to the Boston Public Library and continued down Boylston Street. It paralleled the Freedom Trail, passing Granary Burying Ground before ending at the City Hall Plaza.
Although Veterans Day was observed Nov. 11, Boston held the parade Nov. 9. Before the parade began, those on Tremont Street paused at 11:11 a.m. Then, nearby bells rang 11 times in honor of the observable holiday.
Starting at noon, the ceremony was headed by sirening firetrucks and police. Directly following the vehicles were Mayor Michelle Wu and the 300 to 400 participants there to show their pride and passion for service. Out of the marchers, there were about 25 to 30 military units, a few high school ROTC groups, honorary militias and veterans organizations.
According to the Boston Herald, Wu intended to end the parade by signing legislation providing tax breaks for veteran homeowners to better combat cost-of-living prices. She also announced provisioning $200,000 in funding to veterans via the Bridge the Gap Mini-Grant Program.
The brisk autumn air and sun were accompanied by melodious marching bands including the Christian Brothers Academy Regimental Marching Band and the Danvers High School Marching Band. Other featured militia included the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company and the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment.
Numerous citizens and their families lined up to watch and cheer for the veterans and active duty members, many holding plastic American flags and posters. Many families brought their dogs and children to watch the event.
The parade also featured military family members who either walked along the route or were transported in an array of trolleys and duck boats.
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