Miami Beach Honors Service Men & Women With Veterans Day Parade
MIAMI BEACH (CBSMiami) – Miami Beach was one of a number of South Florida cities who honored those who served and sacrificed for our country with a Veterans Day Parade and wreath-laying ceremony.
The parade kicked off at 17th Street and marched its way along Washington Avenue to 11th Street and into Flamingo Park.
It was followed by a wreath-laying ceremony and picnic at Flamingo Park Baseball Stadium.
For those celebrating the event, this holiday means so much more than a day off of work.
"My dad's a veteran of 27 years in the Air Force and my husband's an army veteran so we're happy to come out and support the veterans," said Jennifer Yeaton.
Army veteran Shawn Brown enjoyed the parade that honors his service.
"It means an open heart, for the ones that care. For the ones that give us spiritual motivation, to know the American people stand by us," explained Army Veteran Shawn Brown.
Despite a strong turnout of parade participants, it seemed very few spectators came out to enjoy it.
"I think they're missing out by not being here and showing support, because we still have military overseas every day and they're enjoying their freedoms and the beach and they could be here supporting them a little bit more, " said Jennifer Yeaton.
Vietnam Veteran Robert Martins agreed that our vets could use more support.
"Just show up, say Hi. Enjoy yourself for the day and then go party at the beach," said Martins.
South Florida Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman-Schultz was this year's Grand Marshal and said in addition to our thanks, our veterans need more services when they return.
"Whether it's making sure that we focus on helping them find work when they return from their service, to the GI bill for the 21st century which helps them get an education to making sure they get timely healthcare."
But in the meantime, veterans at the parade said a little fanfare, and celebration is always welcome.
Click Here for a list of other Veterans Day events in South Florida.
