Raleigh honors veterans despite parade cancellation
There was no Veterans Day Parade Saturday in Raleigh, but that didn’t stop veterans and people from honoring those who served.
Major General William Kirkland gave the keynote speech for the event, in which he professed his love for his country.
“I’m going to stand for this country,” Kirkland said. “This country has been very good to me and these youngsters deserve the same opportunities I had growing up.”
Many wished that the parade could have vehicles, but the city of Raleigh barred the use of vehicles in the parade.
Raleigh communications director Robin Deacle said the city felt there was a risk to public safety. The city still encouraged the public to attend the ceremony.
“The City of Raleigh had granted a parade permit to the Wake County Council of Veterans," Deacle said. "Upon further review this week, city staff recognized the size of the vehicle caravan planned through downtown created a risk to public safety. We spoke with the Veterans group about other options. They have since canceled the parade and will continue with the ceremony at the Capitol at 11 a.m.”
“Many of our veterans are Vietnam-era,” said Richard Spyrison. “They can’t make that walk up Fayetteville Street.”
The city of Raleigh has been trying to do things differently with parade routes after Hailey Brooks was killed by an out-of-control truck during the 2022 Raleigh Christmas Parade.
Raleigh was just one of a few places across the state to opt for parades without vehicles.
Despite the lack of vehicles, the crowd didn’t let the lack of a parade stop them from honoring veterans and the country.
“[To] those who say this country is dead, no, this country is not dead,” Kirkland said.
Organizers and veterans remain hopeful there will be a parade in 2024.
