Honoring Our Heroes

November is an important month, as we honor our many veterans. As a U.S. Army Vietnam War Combat Infantry Veteran, I understand the importance of honoring those who have served and currently serve in our Armed Forces. Their duty and sacrifice should be remembered every day.

Veterans Day, formerly Armistice Day, reflects the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice, ending World War I – the War to End All Wars. If only that were so. My father and his two brothers served in World War II, in the Pacific Theater. When my time came, I proudly served in the Army in Vietnam. Last year, I marked the 50th anniversary of the day I came home from Vietnam. It was a day I will never forget, in part because of the way I was treated by anti-war protesters when I returned. Since that time, it has been my sincere goal, and that of my fellow Vietnam veterans, to make sure that all returning veterans are treated with the respect they deserve.

Since 2015, the City of Prescott has held a Veterans Day Parade, always on Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. This year, we recognize Vietnam veterans, those who served, and the 58,479 who never made it home.

I am proud of Prescott for hosting this important event. A few years ago, Prescott was named one of the Most Patriotic Cities in the United States. In part, I believe, because of this parade, the genuine appreciation our citizens show to veterans, and all of the services our community provides to our veterans. As I am sure you know, Prescott has one of the highest percentages of veterans, per capita, of any city in the United States. We are proud of this fact and proud to honor our veterans.

Thank you to city staff member and veteran, Michelle Stacy-Schroeder and her dedicated committee members, as well as the sponsors, for hosting the parade every year. I hope that you will take time to attend the parade and honor the veterans in your life every day. Their service and sacrifice for our country can never be adequately repaid.

The City of Prescott Veterans Day Parade will take place on Friday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. The parade starts on Cortez and Willis, and goes south, around the Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza. If you cannot attend in person, you can watch it live on the City of Prescott Facebook page. This year, I am pleased to announce that Arizona Family TV 7 will also cover the parade for thousands of viewers around the state. Thank you. QCBN

By Phil Goode

Phil Goode is the mayor of Prescott.