Thousands of spectators lined the streets of Lawton as the Lawton and Fort Sill community joined together to celebrate our nation's troops during the Armed Forces Day Parade May 18.
More than 1,200 service members marched in the parade, which featured various organizations, politicians and other influential people from the community.
"Look at that line of Soldiers," said co-parade grand marshal, Maj. Gen. Mark McDonald, Fires Center of Excellence and Fort Sill commanding general. "If that doesn't move you, something's wrong with you. This is such a supportive city; we are just happy to do this."
For Keith Jackson, a close association with the annual parade dates back to 1964. He said he believes he's been to every Armed Forces Day parade since then.
"Lawton has had a long, long history of supporting Fort Sill and the military," said Jackson, a 2nd Ward city councilman. "It has been one of the most patriotic cities in the United States."
Pfc. Benjamin McKinney, a Soldier assigned to 100th Brigade Support Battalion, has been in stationed at Fort Sill for 18 months and was able to view the parade for the first time this year.
He was accompanied by some of his fellow 'Diamond Brigade' Soldiers of the 75th Fires Brigade and was thrilled to have the opportunity to see the various performances and floats that honored those who serve in the military.
"Just seeing all of the young kids in [Junior ROTC] doing good things, all of the veterans and old school cars feels pretty nice," said McKinney.
Many of the civilians who viewed the parade had a personal connection to service members who are stationed here and around the world.
Kenyetta Pendarvis, a Lawtonian, faithfully attends the annual parade to show her support for service members -- including two of her family members who currently serve in the military.
Pendarvis said if her family members were marching in the parade, she would want to show them how proud she is of them "because of their courage and support for people, friends and families that they don't know."
The American troops stationed in various dangerous places around the world were not far from the minds of those who viewed the parade.
"The battle is not theirs," said Pendarvis. "It's the Lord's. It's already won, so stay encouraged."
The parade was followed by a festival, which was held later in the afternoon.
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