103rd Veterans Day Parade Kicks Off In Tulsa

Oklahomans are honoring America's bravest.

Veterans have celebrated downtown Tulsa on Thursday morning for the 103rd Annual Veterans Day Parade.

People waved American flags, chanted USA, and expressed gratitude for our veterans. The theme this year is “Never Forgotten,” remembering 20 years since the attacks on 9/11. Flags waved proudly for the ones who fought for freedom.

"Freedom is not free. And I want to respect the United States of America,” said veteran Dan Day.

Day’s dad served in the Marines. He says this is a day to celebrate our country honoring those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

"It's hard not to forget the ones that gave. We work very hard to keep the United States free. And I will continue to support the United States as long as I'm able to,” Day said.

The parade was filled with moments of joy and patriotism, and moments of solidarity and remembrance. People at the parade spanned across generations and veterans from different wars. There was a place for everyone, from the youngest Americans to men and women in training, active members, veterans who have served, and those who gave their lives.

This day is special for Frank Riesinger. During the last year of World War II, he began training to be in the Army Air Corps. But since the war was ending, he got assigned to be in the Army Air Force Band.

"And of course, it means a lot to us. Because in World War II, 16 million of us served. There are probably fewer than 100,000 of us left,” Riesinger said.

He says Veterans Day brings people together for one purpose, never forgetting.

"Veterans Day means a celebration of having served. In not only this war but every war of course. We celebrate all veterans from every war,” Riesinger said.

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