Saturday marks 50th anniversary of Veterans Day Parade

MIWLAUKEE (WITI) -- Although Veterans Day is officially November 11th, more than 5,000 people in Milwaukee celebrated Saturday, November 9th during a huge parade downtown.

Those in attendance say it's a chance to thank the veterans who have served, and acknowledge the heroes in the community who have given so much.

"If it wasn't for them, we wouldn't have the freedoms we do today," said veteran Tim Griffin.

Riding in the parade, 93-year-old World War II veteran Curtis Overholt says his thoughts are still with those serving on the front lines.

"I want to give them the most support I can, and tell them to carry on," said Overholt. "I thank them for their service."

Parade Coordinator Mary Ann D'Acquisto says this is the first Milwaukee Veterans Parade to include the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) group.

Ron Ross' son, Justin, made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in Afghanistan.

"Those of us who are Afghanistan, we are kind of new at this. We don't know if we want to go to these things or not -- but once you go, you want to come back," said Ross.

Saturday marked the 50th anniversary of the parade. The event ended at Veterans Park where a special memorial was held.