White Sands Missile Range leadership participated in the 2019 Las Cruces Veterans Day Parade with its theme, "Honoring Our Greatest Generation".

Representing WSMR were Garrison Commander Col. Christopher Ward, WSMR Command Sgt. Major Robert Parker II, and the WSMR Joint Color Guard.

The annual parade got underway with the WSMR Joint Color Guard leading a float with six World War II veterans serving as Parade Grand Marshals. They were Navy Veterans Ralph Emerson, John Paul Taylor and Dwight Weir; Marine Corps Veterans Carmen Ayers and George A. George; and Army Veteran Tino Molinar.

As their float stopped in front of the Reviewing Stand, the veterans were honored with parade medals presented by Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishimi, retired Air Force Brig. Gen. Fermin Rubio and Ward, who presented two medals and rendered salutes to Ayers and George.

For Ward, it was an honor to be a part of the event.

"We are very appreciative of the public backing and the gratitude shown by the City of Las Cruces and all the members of the community that came out to show their support and give thanks to all veterans across multiple generations," said Ward.

"The simple act of displaying unity at a parade shows that we have a community that cares and understands the sacrifices by those who wear our nation's cloth along with their families."