The 76th Chattanooga-Hamilton County Armed Forces Week Commemoration will culminate with the renowned Armed Forces Day Parade on Friday, May 2, by spotlighting the newest branch of the United States Armed Forces, the Space Force. Chattanooga and Hamilton County proudly boasts the longest, continually-staged Armed Forces Day Parade in the United States.
Local residents and all civic, patriotic and faith groups are encouraged to participate in the parade by visiting https://www.chattareaveterans.com or emailing Bill Norton, CAVC chairman at bill@metroservicesinc.com Participation is free.
An Armed Forces Day was designated in 1949 by Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson to celebrate the men and women who actively serve in the U. S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard along with members of the National Guard and Reserve Units. With the memories of World War II strongly imprinted in the minds of citizens and thousands of troops still stationed around the world, guarding the gates of freedom, a day to remember those who stand on the line between tyranny and self-government seemed appropriate. In 1950, President Harry S. Truman confirmed the day as a day of national commemoration and encouraged local communities to display the military’s role in our national defense by staging special events and parades.
From the Hamilton County Mass Band to the JROTC Units from area schools - - from the display of the massive United States Flag to the multitude of floats, decorated cars and trucks commanded by appreciative citizens - - from the area veterans groups representing all conflicts and peacetime service since World War II to our First Responder Units, Chattanooga and Hamilton County’s Armed Forces Day Parade has drawn regional and national praise, confirming the city’s recognition as “the most Patriotic City in the United States.”
Watch for future announcements regarding the Grand Marshall and Reviewing Stand Officers representing all six branches of the United States Armed Forces. Additionally, a link will be provided later for participation in the Armed Forces Day Luncheon, immediately following the parade at the Chattanooga Convention Center on May 2.
Start gathering your flags and red, white and blue banners and clothing. Plan to participate in the 76th Armed Forces Day Parade.