Thousands Gather For Elk Grove's Annual Veteran's Day Parade
ELK GROVE (CBS13) - Thousands lined the streets of Elk Grove to honor veterans Sunday, and one woman says she owes her life to veterans who saved her during World War II.
Not a day goes by that Ingrid Azvedo doesn't think of her childhood growing up in Berlin.
"I owe my life to the Americans," said Azvedo.
The Americans, she says, came to help her during World War II, at a time she wasn't sure if she would survive.
"If it hadn't been for the American soldiers and the veterans at that time, Berlin would have starved to death," said Azvedo.
So every night before bed, she prays for them.
"There were known atrocities, and I love them until the day I die," said Azvedo. "They were the best soldiers you could ever imagine."
On this Veteran's Day, Azvedo is pausing to honor and remember military members at the 12th Annual Elk Grove Veteran's Day Parade.
"Awesome gathering, I love it," said one parade attendee.
From those serving now to those who have served, thousands lined the streets to pay tribute and honor.
"We are here as a free country, and people are spending their lives and their time away from their family to make sure we preserve this freedom for us," said veteran Ted Tabarango.
More than 400 names were read aloud, each representing someone who is in active service or retired.
Some used Sunday's parade as a teaching moment, so no one ever forgets their service for our freedom.
"Because of the men and women who serve our country, we honor them today," one mother explained to her son.
The parade wrapped up with a barbeque at an Elk Grove park.
