Annual Parade Honors Local Veterans

On Wednesday, Nov. 11, hundreds gathered alongside La Cadena Avenue to cheer on and wave a flag to young cadets from local high schools and other participants in the annual American Legion Post 155 Veteran’s Day Parade. Kicking off at 10 a.m. on "O" Street, the cadets marched down to "F" Street towards Fleming Park. Following the cadets were police and fire department vehicles, old-fashioned cars and floats with participants tossing out candy and other items to residents, a marching band, dancers and more. Colton High School Freshman Football Coach, Martin Vega, gathered his league champions at the beginning of the parade. "This is my first year in the parade," he said. Major Rick Williams, Senior Army Instructor of Arroyo Valley High School for army JROTC, has been teaching for over 21 years and attends the parade every year. "Today, we have about 55 cadets," he said. "About a 3rd of our students go into the military, the army primarily, some go into the marines, as well as the navy." Arroyo Valley Hawk Battalion usually represents the army element, since the American Legion Post 15 organizes high schools to participate from each of the branches. “We enjoy this parade," Major Williams said. "We are supported by many of our parents and their booster club parents who are along the parade route. They are here to support their cadets, and it’s a great outing.” The parade brought together the community, honoring noble veterans who have served our country while also celebrating the next generation of local heroes.