Tulsa Veterans Day Parade Draws Thousands To Celebrate And Honor Military Service

The annual Tulsa Veterans Day parade had festivities on the ground and in the air.

The commander VFW Post 577 and parade chairman said as a kid who grew up going to the parades, it makes him so proud to know Tulsa's Veterans Day parade is the second largest in the country.

The sights and sounds of patriotism were on full display in downtown Tulsa.

"It's positive, uplifting,” said Bill Curts, a Marine Corps veteran and Broken Arrow resident.

Crowds gathered at the 106th Tulsa Veterans Day parade to honor our military men and women.

"We're starting to lose some of the older ones,” said Curts.

They honored those still with us and those who never made it home.

Students got candy, American flags and a history lesson.

"How people fought in the military for America to have our freedom,” said Maddie Kurtz, a Council Oak Elementary School student.

Those lessons inspire future generations.

"I'm trying to go to TU as I'm doing TCC right now, and then I'm planning to become an officer in the Navy,” said Karen Hernandez, a member of the Will Rogers High School JROTC.

This year's parade brought beautiful weather and 4,000 people marching.

From cool cars to crazy costumes, the parade had it all.

"It's awesome to see the turnout today,” said Tulsa Mayor GT Bynum. “This is such a point of pride for us as Tulsans.”

Law enforcement made sure it was a safe celebration as 350 cars and 140 floats of all types expressed pride for the men and women who served.

"The community support that we have in Tulsa is extraordinary for veterans,” said Starks. “You can't turn around without somebody today thanking a veteran for their service, but it's not just today. It's all year long, and veterans know they're loved in the city of Tulsa."

Chief Meteorologist Travis Meyer was one of the announcers, and storm tracker Von Castor drove his weather truck in the parade.

Organizers said they are already planning for next year's parade.