Bronx Vietnam veterans honored in 39th annual Veterans Day parade in Throgs Neck

The parade kicked off at Lafayette and Tremont Avenues and ended outside Edgewater Park.

News 12 Staff

Nov 12, 2023, 6:12 PM

Updated 385 days ago

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The 39th annual Veterans Day parade was held Sunday in Throgs Neck, which honored Bronx veterans who fought in the Vietnam War. 
Participants began their march on Lafayette and East Tremont avenues. They walked down the road and eventually ended at Veterans Memorial Park for a ceremony. 
“Serving in uniform is so rewarding. It’s so beneficial to help others and when you see how you can help others whether in any uniform, I think that that really is what we’re here for," said Kris Belanger, who's a major general in the U.S. Army Reserve. She told News 12 that she encourages people to consider serving if they have not yet thought about it. 
The parade put Vietnam veterans in the spotlight and honored three grand marshals: Francis Donnelly, Robert Feliciano Jr., and Patrick Devine. 
Army flags, marching bands, and banners were just a few of the ways people showed their appreciation for veterans throughout the parade. 
“Just thank them for their service, because it’s an honor to be working with such great men and women of this country,” said Ismael Diaz, who's a former staff sergeant with the New York Army National Guard. He went on to explain to us how much of a sacrifice serving truly is, and that veterans put a lot on the line for our country. 
Others at the event said they're grateful for this parade, so they can celebrate and pay respects to the well-deserved veterans.