Virginia Beach residents filled the Oceanfront on Wednesday morning to pay tribute to the men and women who have served our nation. The annual Tidewater Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony, held near the Virginia Beach Convention Center, drew hundreds of onlookers who lined the streets with flags and applause.
Mayor emphasizes military heritage
Mayor Bobby Dyer highlighted the city’s deep‑rooted connection to the armed forces, saying, “Military is part of the DNA of Virginia Beach, and we are VB Proud.” His remarks set the tone for a day that celebrated both past and present service members.
Personal stories underscore family tradition
Local resident Matthew Oldfield, a lifelong Virginian, shared that military service runs deep in his family. “My father is a veteran, my brother is on active duty, and several other family members have served,” Oldfield said, adding that he brought his own flags to the parade as a sign of gratitude.
Mark Brogan, who has never served in the armed forces, expressed his appreciation for those who have. “I did not serve myself. I so appreciate the ones that did. That’s the least I can do,” he said.
Veterans feel the community’s support
Veterans participating in the march echoed the sentiment that the crowd’s enthusiasm made the event especially meaningful. Navy veteran Victor Sanchez described the day as “awesome” and “very, very beautiful,” noting that the gathering honored veterans of all branches.
Parade highlights
The ceremony featured a variety of tributes, including waving flags, marching bands, and a striking submarine display that drew particular interest from children and families. Attendees also enjoyed performances by local school bands and a salute from the city’s fire department.
Community unity on Veterans Day
Beyond the formal recognitions, the event served as a reminder of the shared values that bind Virginia Beach together—faith, family, and a commitment to liberty. Residents of all ages gathered to show respect for those who have defended those freedoms.
As the parade concluded, organizers thanked volunteers, city staff, and the many sponsors who helped make the day possible. The community looks forward to continuing this tradition of honoring service members in the years to come.
Original reporting: WTKR News 3 (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
