Reno residents gathered on Wednesday for the city’s annual Veterans Day Parade, a tradition that has run since 1998, to honor military service members and the families who support them. The event, organized by the City of Reno, the Reno Police and Fire Departments, local JROTC chapters and dozens of veteran‑focused groups, centered on the theme “Veterans Helping Veterans and Their Families,” emphasizing ongoing assistance beyond a single day of recognition.
According to 2 News Nevada, the parade featured a wide array of participants, including the Veterans Guest House, Liberty Dogs and the newly built veterans’ home on Kietzke Lane. Navy veteran Rick McDermid, who served from 1965 to 1970 and helped recover the Apollo 8 capsule, praised the city’s effort, saying, “I really appreciate the City of Reno and everybody else that’s involved putting it together not just for me, but for the families and the generations that are coming up.” Marine Corps veteran Lynn Henderson, who served in Somalia from 1991 to 1997, echoed the sentiment, noting the surprise of the large crowd and the importance of community recognition.
Fox 4 and News 4 reported that retired Major General Ron Bath served as grand marshal, while Army veteran Jerry Williams highlighted the parade’s message of community backing for veterans, spouses, mothers and daughters. Williams explained that transitioning to civilian life requires “support to back you up” as veterans relearn daily routines and social interactions.
Veterans shared personal stories of resilience. Marine Corps veteran Vernon McBride described the support he receives from the VA, the state and his family as “routine support, it’s continuity support. It continues, it goes on and on and on.” Vietnam veteran Joseph Lopez credited his wife and daughter for helping him maintain sobriety for 36 years after a decade of struggling with alcohol, adding that fellow veterans often greet each other with a silent, understanding hug.
The parade also highlighted local resources. The Reno Vet Center offers counseling for individuals, couples and families, while Nevada’s Voices of Valor program provides peer‑to‑peer support throughout Washoe County. Both initiatives align with the parade’s theme by fostering connections that extend well beyond the ceremony.
What’s next: Community groups and city officials plan to continue offering counseling, peer‑support meetings and employment assistance throughout the year, reinforcing the message that Reno stands behind its veterans and their families every day.
Sources: 2news.com, mynews4.com
