HISTORY:  Last November 11, 2004 Congressman Berman and Council President Alex Padilla worked with members of the community to inaugurate the first ever "San Fernando Valley Veterans Day Parade." It was a great success as thousands of residents came out that day to pay tribute to America's heroes--the veterans of our Armed Forces. This year they have planned an even bigger and better "San Fernando Valley Veterans Day Parade."

SIZE AND SCOPE:  This year's parade will begin with a dramatic fly over by a F117 stealth fighter jet. The parade will involve approximately 60 veterans groups (including two equestrian teams) and 4 high school marching bands. All of the wartime eras will be specifically represented (from WWII to Iraqi Freedom) and all branches of military service will be represented by active duty or reserve personnel. Military hardware will be on display and the flying Condor squadron from Van Nuys will decorate the sky. More than 1000 people will line the street to cheer veterans past and present. High ranking military officers, elected officials and other dignitaries will watch from a special viewing stand. Highway off-ramps and local streets will be shut down to traffic. It will be televised on Channel 35.

LOCATION:  The parade route will run south on Laurel Canyon Boulevard beginning at San Fernando Mission Boulevard in Mission Hills and ending at Paxton Street in Pacoima. It will be followed by a street-fair at the Ritchie Valens Recreation Center, 10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd featuring special booths for Veterans

TIME/DATE:  11:00am, November 11th. The parade will begin precisely at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month--the official kick-off of Veteran's day.

GRAND MARSHAL:  Sergeant Christina Gecse will be the overall grand marshal. She is about to embark on her third tour in the Middle East. She is a remarkable woman with a compelling story. A grand marshal from each wartime era will be honored as well.

STREET FAIR:  The parade will culminate in a large street fair at Ritchie Valens Park. The Department of Veterans Affairs will set up booths to offer health and other benefit services to all Veterans. Music, special guests, and other entertainment will be featured on an outdoor stage. The U.S. Postal Service will sell the new distinguished Marine Commemorative. Congressman Berman and Council President Padilla will buy hot dogs for all in attendance.