Pittsburgh's Veterans Day Parade marches on despite soggy conditions
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Pittsburgh's Veterans Day Parade marched on despite the rain.
There were a few clouds to rain on the parade, but it didn't deter parade-goers and parade participants alike from coming out and celebrating those who have served.
At 10:30 a.m., the 103rd Pittsburgh Veteran's Day Parade stepped off with a wet but celebratory energy.
The theme of this year's parade was Honoring a New Generation of Warriors, giving a big nod to veterans from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. And while all the branches of the armed forces were featured, this year's parade highlighted the United States Marine Corps, which just turned 247 years old this week.
And while the Marines were well represented, veterans from all branches of the armed forces participated in today's event.
"It makes my heart jump, it really does," said veteran David Graver about everyone who came out in the rain. "It's a warm feeling and sometimes I get tears in my eyes."
The parade saw not only veterans show up, but their family members, over 90 different organizations and several local high school marching bands keeping the beat.
"The weather never stopped us," said veteran Chuck DeSabato, this year's parade commander. "The old saying 'rain or shine,' the military works every day."
