FORT SILL, Okla. -- The Armed Forces Day parade began with the Fort Sill Joint Service Color Guard leading the way. From left to right they carried the American flag followed by the different military services in order of when they were created.
The parade was a microcosm of the military and community members as they marched through the streets of downtown Lawton, Saturday. Uniforms of all kinds represented service members from both past and present.
Retired colonel Bill Malone was one of many veterans in attendance. After spending 30 years in Washington, D.C., he and his family returned to the Lawton-Fort Sill area. A former field artilleryman, he said he enjoys the spirit of the community here.
"This part of the country is great. Everybody comes out and they're patriotic and they believe in the country and in God," said Malone.
Malone's sentiment was echoed by waving American flags extended from the many spectators' hands. A huge crowd came out for what is boasted as the nation's largest Armed Forces Day parade with more than 100 floats, trucks and bands participating.
Different field artillery and air defense artillery vehicles were sporadically placed throughout the parade giving viewers a taste of the firepower on Fort Sill. There were also humvees filled with Soldiers and family members and floats representing Fort Sill's rich history.
Although Fort Sill is the closest military installation in proximity to the parade, the other services were represented by active-duty members and others.
"My father-in-law, Glenn Hyde, is on the Marine Corps League float," said Carlene Hyde.
She said although he is an Army veteran, his son's service as a Marine allows him to join the league. Hyde was joined by her two children who were enjoying the bright floats and big machinery along with free candy tossed their way. Her mother-in-law was also by her side waiting for her husband's float to pass by.
The parade started at Central Mall in downtown Lawton and ended at Elmer Thomas Park where many more events were set up to show appreciation for the military.
For Sgt. Melissa Boyce being at the parade was about more than just the festivities. It meant she was able to spend time with family and friends.
"This is the first time I've been home for the Armed Forces Day parade. I'm usually overseas or in training, so this has been great," said Boyce.
President Harry S. Truman led the effort to establish a single holiday for citizens to come together and thank military members for their patriotic service in support of the country.
Armed Forces Day was created Aug. 31, 1949 when Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced one celebration would replace separate Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force days. The single-day celebration stemmed from the unification of the armed forces under one department -- the Department of Defense.
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