Inaugural Texas Veterans Day Parade in Arlington’s Entertainment District
On Monday, November 11, 2024, Arlington’s Entertainment District will come alive with the sounds of celebration and gratitude as it hosts the inaugural Texas Veterans Day Parade. This exciting event promises to be a vibrant tribute to the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces, featuring live music, a helicopter flyover, and a stunning drone show near Globe Life Field.
Parade Details and Schedule
The festivities will kick off with a musical prelude at 3:30 p.m., setting the tone for an afternoon filled with patriotism and community spirit. At approximately 4 p.m., attendees can look forward to a thrilling flyover by Bell Helicopter, a nod to the aviation heritage that plays a significant role in military operations. The parade will commence from the intersection of Randol Mill Road and Ballpark Way, proceeding west along the north side of Choctaw Stadium.
The route will loop around the Texas Rangers Sienna Lot M, following Nolan Ryan Expressway, AT&T Way, and Pennant Drive, ultimately concluding near the Sheraton Arlington Hotel. For those interested in the specifics, a detailed map of the parade route is available here.
Honoring Heroes
A highlight of the parade is its grand marshal, Major General Patrick Henry Brady, a retired U.S. Army officer and Medal of Honor recipient for his courageous actions during the Vietnam War. His presence underscores the event’s commitment to honoring those who have made significant sacrifices for their country. The parade route also passes the future site of the National Medal of Honor Museum, set to open in March 2025, further emphasizing the importance of recognizing military valor.
Arlington Mayor Jim Ross expressed the community’s deep-rooted respect for veterans, stating, “The inaugural Veterans Day Parade is yet another testament to our community’s deep-rooted respect and gratitude for the brave men and women who have served our country.” This sentiment resonates throughout the city, which has a long-standing tradition of supporting its veterans.
Community Engagement and Entertainment
The Texas Veterans Day Parade aims to be a free, family-friendly event that fosters community spirit and patriotism. Parade organizer Kevin Donovan emphasized the goal of bringing the community together to honor Texas veterans, making it a significant occasion for all attendees.
Following the parade, participants can enjoy a spectacular drone show by Sky Element at 6 p.m. in the parking lot east of Globe Life Field. This innovative display will be complemented by an induction ceremony featuring inductees from every branch of the U.S. military. The evening will culminate with live music at Texas Live!, starting at 7 p.m., ensuring that the celebration continues well into the night.
A Star-Studded Event
Adding to the excitement, the master of ceremonies for the event will be Texas actor and Marine Corps veteran Barry Corbin. Known for his roles in popular television series such as “Northern Exposure,” “Yellowstone,” and “Tulsa King,” as well as films like “Urban Cowboy” and “No Country for Old Men,” Corbin will provide engaging commentary from the reviewing stand on the north side of Choctaw Stadium.
Parade Participants
This inaugural parade is expected to feature approximately 100 entries, showcasing a diverse array of participants. Among them will be the Arrowhead Military Vehicle Preservation Association, the Medal of Honor Museum, bands from all Arlington high schools, and the 1st Cavalry Division Band from Fort Cavazos. Additionally, ROTC units from Texas Tech and Baylor University, the University of Texas at Arlington Maverick Battalion Color Guard, and local military units will also take part, creating a rich tapestry of representation and honor.
Get Involved
For those interested in learning more about the inaugural Texas Veterans Day Parade or exploring sponsorship opportunities, additional information can be found on the official website here. You can also reach out via email for inquiries.
This inaugural event is not just a parade; it’s a heartfelt celebration of service, sacrifice, and community. As Arlington prepares to honor its veterans, the Texas Veterans Day Parade promises to be a memorable occasion that will resonate with attendees for years to come.