Boston Veterans Parade Draws Hundreds Despite Rain

The procession began near Copley Square and finished at City Hall Plaza, drawing veterans’ groups, ROTC participants and marching bands. The rain did not deter marchers or spectators who gathered along the route to honor those who have worn the uniform of the U.S. military.

Army veteran Michelle Wright, marching with a regional carpenters’ council serving the northern Atlantic states, said veterans’ organizations can offer a continued sense of community and support. Air Force veteran David Perry said the parade was a public way to recognize current and former service members. Tammy Myers traveled from Maine to watch her nephew, a Maine Maritime Academy midshipman, march.

At City Hall Plaza, participants were welcomed by Mayor Michelle Wu along with fellow municipal leaders. Boston Veterans Services Commissioner Robert Santiago led a flag-raising ceremony with City Councilor Ed Flynn; both are Navy veterans. Santiago said the turnout despite the weather was meaningful to him, and described caring for the city’s veterans as an honor. The federal Veterans Day holiday falls on November 11.