Auburn Parade Honors Sailors, Veterans

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SS) Dave Gordon, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Det. Northwest

AUBURN, Wash. (NNS) -- Thousands lined the streets of Auburn, Wash., to thank active duty Sailors and veterans for their service during the 45th annual Auburn Veterans Day Parade Nov. 6.

"This parade is something you take pride in," said Lawrence Zipp, a former submariner who served on the submarine USS R-1 in World War II. "I've met Admiral Nimitz, and a day like today really blows you up inside with pride of doing something special for America."

Zipp, along with veterans from the Navy and other services, marched the parade route representing different eras of U.S. military service, from the Revolutionary War to current active and Reserve units stationed in the area.

"The people of Auburn opened their doors and community to us today," said Rear Adm. Douglass Biesel, commander, Navy Region Northwest. "I can't thank the city enough, including the military families who support and sacrifice for these heroes. I am honored to be here."

Biesel, escorted by the music from Navy Band Northwest, was one of a dozen distinguished visitors representing military services from local commands.

The mile-long parade featured nearly 200 entries, including more than 25 marching bands, drill teams, honor guards, veterans' floats, antique military vehicles and even the hull from a Vietnam-era UH-1 Huey helicopter.

"I am so proud of our veterans and the warm welcome from these people," said Mike Gregoire, a Vietnam veteran and husband of Washington Governor Chris Gregoire. "It's touching, very touching, to be here."