Article Display

Columbia parade honors veterans

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Kenny Holston
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Members of Team Shaw and hundreds of active-duty, retired, and civilian personnel gathered on Sumter Street in downtown Columbia as the city hosted its 34th annual Veterans Day Parade, Nov. 12.

Vietnam veterans from across South Carolina lead some 70 plus groups in the parade towards the State Capitol Building as those in attendance jockeyed for a spot curbside to get a glimpse of the action.

During the event Columbia Mayor Pro Tem Brian DeQuincey Newman stated in his opening remarks for the parade that "Columbia is dedicated to being the most military friendly city in the country." Newman also accepted a designation from the S.C. Military Order of the Purple Heart as the state's first "Purple Heart City."

City officials noted that over 100 veterans from the Wounded Warrior Project were in attendance.

In addition, several local veterans attended the event to include U.S. Army retired Sgt. Maj. Verldon Spence, father of U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Duane Spence, 20th Medical Group dental technician.

"This was a nice parade," said Sgt. Maj. Spence. "I was proud to once again wear my uniform and be a part of the activities."

Spence served 38 years in the U.S. Army Dental Corps and retired at Fort Jackson Army Post, S.C. He expressed how proud he is of his son for serving in the Air Force and how thankful he is for all men and women who have served and are serving.

As the parade concluded, patriotism and pride were more than just a theme as Sumter Street was lined with men, women and children waving American flags.