Like most of our beloved events, the 2020 Hawaii Island Veterans Day Parade has gone virtual this year. The event marks the 13th year that the parade has taken place on the Island and the first time it has gone virtual. This year’s parade will launch at 10am HST on Saturday, November 7, 2020 on the parade’s website and Facebook page.
This year’s parade highlights include a special message from 4-Time Super Bowl Champion, Terry Bradshaw (who currently owns a home at Mauna Kea Resort, though the property is up for sale), as well as the submission of videos and photos by local groups, public figures, elementary schools, and more. The parade committee, boosted by the talents of intern Anella Palacpac (niece of parade photographer John Antonio), creatively figured out how to keep Celebrating Service in alternative, safe and effective ways.
Retired Colonel Deb Lewis, Parade Committee Chair of six years, shared, “Amidst challenging COVID times, our parade’s theme ‘Celebrate Service’ is as relevant and needed as ever. Take last year’s parade entry – the Boys and Girls Club of the Big Island (BGCBI). They looked at their resources and began a vital mission delivering meals island-wide to help the most vulnerable. By Thanksgiving they expect to reach 130,000 meals. This feat is made possible by many – the leadership of Chad Cabral, his caring staff and board, an army of volunteers, and generosity of businesses and grants.”
Three Parade Marshals will be recognized for their extraordinary service, with this year’s Grand Marshal honor being held by Korean War Veterans. The year 2020 marks the 70th anniversary from the start of the Korean War, one of the most destructive conflicts in the modern era. A war with approximately 3 million war fatalities, US Veterans suffered tremendous hardships to keep South Korea free and safeguard the Free World. The 2020 Community Parade Marshal is Hawai’i Care Choices, and the Business Parade Marshal is Isemoto Contracting. Both of these organizations serve our community and Veterans in many ways every day.
To watch the parade or make a donation to it, please visit the Hawaii Island Veterans Day Parade website. Learn more about the history of Veterans Day here.
