HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Hundreds of people gathered in downtown Huntsville for the annual Veterans Day Parade, to honor and thank those who have served.
The rain didn't stop the community of Huntsville to come together Friday to honor Veterans.
There were lots of smiles and waves and attendees thanking veterans for their service.
One attendee, Norma Bradford, felt compelled to march as the young cadets came through.
"When the young cadets came through marching and calling cadence, it reminded me of my time in high school and college doing that and then going to basic training, so it made me just want to do it too."
She is a veteran herself, "I served 30 years in the U.S. Army, so I'm just happy to be here and support other veterans."
Just as this parade reminds Bradford of her time in the U.S. Army, it also brings up memories for people like Gracie Garland, whose grandfather served in the military.
Garland says, "Growing up my whole life, me and him we were always in [Veterans Parades], so ever since he's passed away, I'd like to just come at least watch this as I'm no longer with him and in them anymore."
Garland has a big appreciation for those on active duty and those who served, "It takes a lot of guts to be able to walk away from your family and know you're putting your life at risk."
Another attendee, Melody Fletcher, adds, "…and not [knowing] if you're going to come home or not..so it just means so much."
Bradford hopes that people will honor veterans every day by, "Offering job opportunities to veterans, always acknowledge them when they know that they are a veteran, and simply by paying for a meal or just saying 'thank you,' most veterans just want to hear, 'thank you.''
Ultimately, she wants to say, "Happy Veterans Day, to all the Veterans out there. We appreciate you. We love you, and we hope you feel valued and loved and appreciated."
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