Bright afternoon sunlight gleamed off the brass and drums of the 73rd Army Band as ROTC students, a cadre some 200 strong, stepped off in cadence for St Thomas’s annual Veteran’s Day parade Sunday to the delight of the hundreds that lined the route.
The parade began at midday at Addelita Cancryn Junior High School and followed a two-mile path along the Charlotte Amalie waterfront, culminating in a program at the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Park with guest speakers, musical tributes and poignant moments of remembrance.
Participants included Gov. deJongh Jr., Lt. Gov. Gregory R. Francis, who is a veteran, Delegate Donna Christensen, and the parade marshal, retired Sgt. 1st Class Patrick D. Farrell. The route was lined with local residents, flag-waving children and tourists, reflecting similar observances across the country honoring those who served and sacrificed for their country in military service.
Veterans along with their families and uniformed members of the American Legion awaited the marchers at Roosevelt Park, and were on hand for a tribute by the keynote speaker, retired Lt. Col. Marilyn Georges, a 29-year veteran of the Marine Corp.
One of those attending the parade and special ceremonies was past Post Commander Heraldo Toddman Sr., a 24-year veteran of the Army, Army Reserves and National Guard, who said observing Veterans Day is important for both the country’s past and it’s future.
“It is important for the youth of our community to see the military as a means by which they can receive lifelong career benefits, educational scholarships and understand the importance of being of service to the nation,” he said.
Following a closing benediction by Virgin Islands National Guard chaplain Dion Christopher, American Legion Post 131 hosted a dinner for legionnaires and their families at Legion Hall.
