‘We understand why we’re free.’ Merced celebrates Veterans Day with drive-through parade
A group of UC Merced students lined Main Street in downtown Merced on Thursday afternoon holding signs that read “Thank you Veterans” and “Thank you for your service.”
Cub Scouts waved American flags, dance teams and cheerleaders performed and members of the Merced Police Department, California Highway Patrol and Merced Fire Department waved as the city celebrated Veterans Day with Merced County’s 17th annual Veterans Day Parade.
The parade was designed as a drive-through experience due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Parade floats and participants were positioned along Main Street between M and G streets, and people drove through the event.
“As you can see how resilient our veterans are to be able to do one online last year and this year getting a step closer to actually doing the parade,” Merced County Supervisor Daron McDaniel said.
The event kicked off with an opening ceremony at noon in Bob Hart Square.
McDaniel and U.S. Rep. Jim Costa, D-Fresno, were two of the speakers, talking about the importance of supporting and honoring our veterans.
“Our veterans come from all over the country, all different backgrounds and they represent what I believe is great about our nation,” Costa said. “So we all owe them a debt of gratitude and today we do that, but let’s just not wait for November 11th, let’s make sure we do that every day.”
McDaniel revealed how his family has a long history of people who have served in the military, so Veterans Day has a special meaning for him.
“It touches me deeply.” McDaniel said. “My best friend lost his son in the Battle of Fallujah and I can say today that’s why I’m in government, helping him through that.”
People drove down Main Street honking their cars and waving flags as they made their way past the different groups and displays lined up on the street.
U.C. Merced’s band played as a dance team and cheerleaders performed. There were other displays set up by the Kiwanis Club, Boys Scouts and Cub Scouts, and car clubs.
A virtual ceremony was also posted on Merced County’s Facebook page to accompany the drive-through parade.
“This is a military rich community with the former Castle Air Force Base,” McDaniel said. “Any time we do anything with veterans or military, everybody comes out and celebrates. We understand why we’re free. Merced County knows it’s because of the veterans.”
