JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The community will pay tribute Tuesday morning to those who have served in America's armed services and those who currently serve during the city's annual Veterans Day Parade.
The parade steps off from EverBank Field, Lot J at 11:01 a.m. -- the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in remembrance of the armistice was signed ending World War I. More than 4,000 participants representing dozens of military and civilian units will proceed down Bay Street to Newnan Street, follow to Independent Street, which turns into Water Street. The parade will end on Lee Street near the Prime Osborne Convention Center.
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"The annual Veterans Day parade will highlight Jacksonville's Week of Valor celebrations -- a week honoring those who have served our country," said Major Admiral Victor Guillory, director of military and veterans affairs for the City of Jacksonville.
News4Jax anchors Melanie Lawson and Kent Justice will M.C. the parade, which will be streamed live on News4Jax.com.
The parade will feature senior military officials, active-duty and retired military units, veterans groups, local high school marching bands, military organization, decorative floats, giant balloons, JROTC units and more.
MORE: View/print map of parade route | 2014 Veterans Day Parade
Among the participants will be Major Allan Pearce, a 98-year-old U.S. Army veteran. This year's grand marshals will be Retired Adm. Robert Byron Fuller and Retired Col. Carl Crumpler, both Vietnam War prisoners of war.
"It recognizes for than the 100,000 veterans from our city, their family members, the surviving spouses. It also shows that we appreciate the service of those who continue to serve the many military bases that are here in Jacksonville," said Guillory.
Parade watchers are encouraged to show their support by wearing red, white and blue, as well as by waving flags, banners and signs. The parade can be viewed from multiple places along Bay Street, from A. Philip Randolph to Newnan Street, near the Jacksonville Landing and along Water Street.
The parade is part of Jacksonville's Week of Valor, honoring the city's ties to and respect for the U.S. Armed Forces.
"Showcasing Jacksonville as the most veteran- and military-friendly city in America, the parade is a special opportunity to show our deep appreciation for the service and sacrifice of our veterans, active-duty service members and their families," said Mayor Alvin Brown.
Street closures for the parade will begin at 10:15 a.m. on Tuesday. Click for full list of closures.