JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The City of Jacksonville is honoring and celebrating those who have served their country during the annual Veterans Day Parade downtown.
Hundreds of people showed up, many of whom had not been to a parade or large event all year. They say the celebratory feeling from the parade is needed in 2020.
Several veterans told First Coast News they felt proud just to be there and stand in for the military service members who could not be there.
"To show how much appreciation and love and the sacrifices," said Marcius King, a Vietnam veteran. "I'm particularly blessed because I went over to Vietnam and I'm here."
"Really, really proud," said Vietnam Veteran John Garza. "A lot of fun and a lot of noise."
The parade took a new route through downtown this year, starting Water Street and ending at Lee and W Forsyth Streets.
