An extraordinary parade will be held in St. Augustine this Veterans Day to celebrate the city's unique,     450 year long military heritage.     Organized by the 450th Military Commemoration Committee, the  Veterans Council of St. Johns County,  and the Ancient City Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America,   the parade brings to a climax programs and events held in the city during 2015 that have underscored the close relationship the city has had with veterans and the military for centuries

As a tribute to those who have secured the freedom we enjoy today, and a testament to the enduring need for such selfless service and sacrifice in the future, the marchers represent those who have gone before, those serving now, and those who will serve in the future. Featured will be re-enactors representing veterans from every era of St. Augustine’s unique military history, Army Engineer troops from Fort Stewart, Color Guards representing the Florida National Guard and the military services, Junior ROTC drill teams and marching units from the three St. Johns County high schools. The Navy Region South East Band, the St. Augustine High School and Ponte Vedra High School combined marching bands, and massed pipes and drums will provide parade music. Prizes will be awarded to JROTC marching units, and the massed colors of over 30 veteran and civic organizations representing more than 23,000 veterans living in St. Johns County will form an impressive tableau in front of the Castillo de San Marcos.

The parade will exit St. Francis Field at 10:50 AM, pass the reviewing stand of civic and international dignitaries by the Castillo de San Marcos at 11:00, then proceed to the town square. (see map.)

Throughout the day, static displays on the Castillo grounds and in the harbor will feature a Coast Guard helicopter and patrol boats, as well as Army/National Guard vehicles and weapons. A fly over by modern and vintage planes will complete the tribute on air, land, and sea.

For more information, contact George Linardos at: gl@snowdogs.us or Bill Dudley at: anuday00@aol.com