NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The annual New Orleans Veterans Parade made its way down Harrison Avenue with not only residents, but also dogs showing support for their service.
Former Marine Corps veteran Marcel Farnet said the event is a chance to celebrate veterans in a variety of ways.
“I’m very proud of it and I’m happy to make a lot of friends here too. This is a great group,” said Farnet.
This year’s honorary grand marshal recipient was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and a recipient of the Purple Heart in the Vietnam War, Mr. Ellis Johnson.
“Words cannot express how well I’m feeling right now. This is a tremendous opportunity. I appreciate being nominated. It’s just a pleasure to participate in something like this. Just breathtaking, I’m just lost for words,” said Johnson.
The parade has always been known as a way to provide veterans with a safe space to come together.
Johnson says it reminds everyone of the sacrifices made by those who served. A sacrifice he wouldn’t change for anything in the world.
“I was a squad leader in the Marine Corps during Vietnam. So I would give an ounce back, I enjoyed my service in the Marine Corps. I am proud to be a vet in the Marine Corps. A Purple Heart Marine Corp vet, I just love it,” said Johnson.
Johnson’s wife, Marguerite Johnson says watching him ride in the parade brings her joy. She felt overwhelmed with the love everyone has shown.
“All our friends and family, and everybody came out to honor him. He volunteers at the World War II museum, and those people were out here to support him, and we were very glad for that.”
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