Torrance, Calif -- The City of Torrance paid tribute to the five branches of the military during the 55th Annual Torrance Armed Forces Days Celebration, May 16-18. This year the honored service was the US Navy.
The 2014 parade Grand Marshal was Rear Adm. Patrick J. Lorge, commander Navy Region Southwest. Major (ret) Patrick C. G. Coulter, US Marine Corp, served as the Honorary Grand Marshal.
Also featured in this year's parade was Sgt. Kyle White, who received the Medal of Honor for his actions in combat in Afghanistan. White was awarded the nation's highest honor for valor by President Barack Obama in a White House ceremony Tuesday.
The City of Torrance is designated by the U.S. Department of Defense to host an Armed Forces Day celebration with the Torrance Armed Forces Day Parade as a highlight. The Parade has the distinction of being the nation's longest running military parade sponsored by any city.
The celebration began on May 16 with the opening of displays from all five branches at the Del Amo Fashion Plaza.
"The kids really seem to have fun," said Staff Sgt. Alfie Harris. "And I'm amazed by the public support."
Harris, a tank commander in the 2/11th Armored Calvary Regiment from Fort Irwin, CA, spoke while his crew showed off their M1 Abrams Main Battle Tank to the public.
Kris Voight, from Hermosa Beach, brought his two young sons to visit the displays on Sunday. Voight said this was not the first time he brought his boys, Jake and Ben to see the display area. "I think people really enjoy seeing this," Voight said.
The 2015 celebration will take place May 15-17. The honored service will be the US Coast Guard.
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