CNY Veterans Parade & Expo

The annual CNY Veterans Parade and Expo will continue to be an outpouring of gratitude and support for our soldiers and veterans. The purpose of the event is "Thanking Our Veterans" of every generation and conflict.

The focal point of the day is the hour long parade, beginning at noon, and featuring more than 90 veteran and military organizations from throughout Central New York. Local high school marching bands join the procession adding patriotic charm with their performances. The parade is based on old-fashioned military style parades and features military vehicles, local military units, and many contingents of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Legion Posts. Every branch of the armed services and every conflict since and including WWII are represented. Veterans who participated in prior years have expressed gratification at seeing the crowds waving flags and acknowledging them as the parade winds around Chevy Court.

The EXPO is held in the Center of Progress building, features displays with a special emphasis on military history, local companies, and local organizations helping present military personnel or veterans. Last year, more than 100 organizations took part in the Expo. Organizations and individuals exhibit important artifacts from the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, the Civil War, and the Vietnam War.

Local groups offer ways to get involved, such as gathering goods to send to deployed troops. The VA and other organizations present information about services available to veterans of any age. There will once again be a presentation about TRI-Care for retirees and a Kids' Area will feature activities, games, displays and even face painting.

The Expo will feature military and veterans themed kiosks, featuring many hands-on exhibits and informational displays such as:

• Children's Area By TOPS: An expanded section will feature activities, game displays and even face painting and magicians
• Fort Drum and the 10th Mountain Division will have a strong presence at this event, displaying many of their troops, vehicles and information about the Army
• A private display of Vietnam era uniforms, patches, and memorabilia
• Many other hands-on exhibits, activities and information provided by the VA Hospital, Syracuse Marine Parents, Gillette Road Military Support Group, Syracuse Cadet Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol, local colleges, other branches of the military and veterans organizations.
• A ceremony to honor veterans