New York City’s 105th annual Veterans Day Parade brought crowds to Fifth Avenue on Monday. The event is the largest celebration of veterans in the nation.

The day began with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony where veterans, military leaders and officials honored those who sacrificed for the country. The ceremony included a rifle salute that echoed through Midtown, setting a respectful tone for the day’s events.

The parade, which stretched from 25th to 45th streets, featured nearly 300 groups marching patriotically. New York City Mayor Eric Adams joined veterans, active-duty military members and youth cadets in the procession.

According to officials, around 20,000 participants from across the country took part, representing every branch of service and every era of U.S. military history.

J. Roberts, a 77-year-old Vietnam War veteran who served for 14 years, spoke about the significance of the day.

“I was drafted in ’67,” he shared. “I always come out here to honor the brothers and sisters who served in all the wars.”

Spectators filled the sidewalks, with many traveling from outside New York to show their appreciation. For some, it was their first time experiencing the parade.

“I’m seeing people who protected me and protected this country...I believe we should be throwing rose petals at their feet because if it wasn’t for the vets — the ones that gave their life for us — we wouldn’t be here,” said Atif Adeem.

For many New Yorkers and visitors, the Veterans Day Parade is not just an annual tradition, it’s a powerful reminder of the bravery and sacrifice made by those who have served.