By Kitty Wang, Vision Times
WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Nov. 8, thousands of spectators gathered in the nation’s capital to celebrate the fourth annual National Veterans Parade, honoring American military veterans and their sacrifices ahead of Veterans Day on Nov. 11.
According to NTD News, the parade traveled along Constitution Avenue from the National Archives toward the White House, featuring military marching bands, colorful floats, vintage military vehicles, veterans’ organizations, first responders, Gold Star families, and participants representing all branches of the U.S. armed forces. The event also brought together high school marching bands, college drill teams, and community groups from across the country.
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A grand celebration
This year’s grand marshal was Robert Kiyosaki, a Vietnam War veteran and bestselling author of Rich Dad Poor Dad. Kiyosaki, who served as a Marine Corps helicopter gunship pilot during the Vietnam War, said it was a tremendous honor to represent generations of American veterans.
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“We fight for the freedom of speech, the freedom to bear arms, the freedom to vote,” Kiyosaki said, emphasizing that American service members fight to protect fundamental freedoms rather than oppress others.
Rep. Jack Bergman (R-Mich.), a retired Marine Corps lieutenant general and Vietnam War veteran, also participated in the event. Bergman said he and Kiyosaki had served together in Vietnam and maintained a friendship spanning more than 50 years. He stressed the importance of teaching younger generations about patriotism and the sacrifices made by American service members throughout history.
Other veterans and participants expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to celebrate military service and national unity. Vietnam veteran Don Morris, who was exposed to Agent Orange during his service, said he was particularly moved to see Americans coming together despite political divisions following the recent midterm elections. For him, the parade represented a shared love for the country that transcended political differences.
Trump sends his regards
President Donald Trump also honored veterans in a video message, thanking them for their service and calling them the greatest people in the world. “I want to wish the veterans a happy Veterans Day. You’re the greatest people on earth, the best in the world, the greatest people,” said Trump in the video. “Thank you very much. I love you all.”
Beyond celebrating military service, the event highlighted the challenges veterans face after returning to civilian life. Francis Ventura, executive director of the National Veterans Parade Foundation, pointed to mental health issues, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicide as major concerns, emphasizing the need for stronger legislative support, prevention programs, and treatment services to help veterans and their families.
Kiyosaki also drew attention to homelessness among former service members, highlighting the difficulties some veterans continue to face long after their military service has ended.
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