Paula Pedene has succeeded in multiple military-related spheres, be it as a U.S. Navy broadcast journalist, television news anchor, or as a renowned Department of Veterans Affairs whistleblower. But her three-decade journey overseeing the Phoenix Veterans Day Parade is hard to top.
This year's event in Arizona is special for a couple of reasons. Not only is it taking place during the United States' 250th birthday, it is also the 30th year of veterans galvanizing with the public to honor those who serve.
Taking place on Nov. 11 and put on by the organization Honoring America's Veterans, the annual event over the years has included more than 1.5 million spectators and participants, recognized over 600,000 veterans, and reached a statewide population surpassing 75 million people.
This year's event is scheduled to include the following:
- 100-year-old World War II veteran Delmar DeWitt Beard, who served in the Pacific during the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa.
- Super Bowl champion quarterback Jim McMahon, formerly of the Chicago Bears, who will serve as celebrity grand marshal.
- Steve Langen, whose son, Marine Sgt. Alec Langen, was killed in a 2024 military helicopter crash.
- Seven veteran grand marshals, representing military service from World War II through the post-9/11 era.
Approximately 45,000 spectators are expected to attend. This year's theme is "250 Years of Freedom, 30 Years of Honor."
Pedene spoke to Military.com about her history involving the military and...
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