Veterans celebrated at 8th annual Brooklyn parade and resource fair
For many participants, the day was both a celebration and a reminder of the bonds shared among those who have served.
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Veterans from across Brooklyn were honored Saturday during the 8th Annual Veterans Appreciation Day Parade and Resource Fair, a community event that recognized military service and connected former service members with critical support services.
American flags lined the streets as veterans of all ages marched through the borough, joined by community organizations, local leaders and residents who came out to express their gratitude.
For many participants, the day was both a celebration and a reminder of the bonds shared among those who have served.
"I am proud to be part of an organization that I feel gives me so much love in return," said Tiffani Robinson of the National Association of Military Black Women.
Captain Morgan Baker of the U.S. Army, who served as grand marshal, said leading the parade was a meaningful honor.
"This is an extreme honor again, to be able to represent the Army and then also represent those who served before me and those who are currently serving," Baker said.
While the parade celebrated the contributions of veterans, organizers said the event also highlighted the challenges many continue to face after leaving the military.
Elvis James, a U.S. Army veteran, shared his personal experience with mental health struggles following his service.
"I got ill in the military 38 years ago," James said. "When I listened to the amount of soldiers that are coming in and suicide after the transition and knowing that I did suffer a breakdown in 1988 and still standing, they could do the same."
The event's accompanying resource fair was designed to connect veterans with services including healthcare screenings, mental health counseling and information about benefits programs.
"We served and we deserve our benefits," said Staff Sergeant James B. Randolph.
Randolph, a retired Marine, said he has watched the parade from outside his apartment every year and has seen it grow steadily over time.
"We were just joking around that it gets longer and longer and bigger and bigger every year," Randolph said. "So it just warms my heart that I could see people actually showing love and caring about veterans, and especially here in Brooklyn, where there are so many veterans that go unnoticed."
Organizers say the annual event continues to grow each year, providing an opportunity for veterans to celebrate their service, connect with resources and feel supported by their community ahead of the official Veterans Day holiday.
