Marching Through Time
Auburn’s 60-Year Tribute To Service And Sacrifice
By Jonathan Glover, City of Auburn Communications Manager
For six decades, Auburn’s Veterans Parade and Observance has marched forward, rain or shine, as one of the largest and most cherished tributes to military service in the Pacific Northwest. What began in 1965 as a hometown salute has grown into a nationally recognized tradition – one that draws tens of thousands of spectators, hundreds of entries and an unshakable sense of pride from those who participate This year’s event marks the 60th anniversary, a milestone of Auburn’s deep connection to the armed forces. Flags wave. Families line the route. Stories are shared. And at the heart of it all is a simple, powerful truth: the service and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans must never be forgotten. For many, the parade is far more than a once-a-year celebration. It’s a reunion between generations, and a living history lesson for those seeing it for the first time. In honor of this diamond anniversary, we asked veterans, organizers and longtime participants what the parade means to them. These are their stories.
Peter Lahmann “This is a chance for us to honor the memory and history of the Men and Women that have served and are serving in the military forces of the United States... Our living history group, Friends of Willie and Joe, has participated for over 25 years, keeping the memory alive of those that have made the sacrifices to serve our country... Just last year, while waiting for the parade to start and driving the Vietnam Patrol Boat, a man walked by and told me he had worked at Uniflite in Bellingham – he helped build the very boat we had in the parade some 56 years ago.”
Roger Olsen “Veterans Day is a celebration of the sacrifices the men and women of our military services have made to protect the many freedoms the citizens of this country enjoy... Auburn American Legion Post 78 has participated since its beginning in 1965, when Chuck Gaines – Auburn Mayor and Post 78 member – established the parade... My favorite memory is the appreciation and recognition shown to our Vietnam veterans during the 1988 parade, a moment that will always stand out for me.”
Josh Wheeldon “Over the past decade, the Auburn Veterans Parade has become more than just an annual event – it’s a family tradition. It’s a time to reflect, honor, and reconnect with the community... Each year I’ve been involved, from setting up tables with Veteran resources to walking the route or riding alongside comrades on motorcycles, brings new connections and continued purpose... The very first year I walked, I carried a sign that still gets used today – seeing it carried by others reminds me how a small act of remembrance can become part of something much bigger.”
Debra Wood “When our group first started, we were a bit worried how we would be received... as you know, Vietnam was not a very ‘popular’ conflict. However, from the time we formed up and throughout the entire parade, you could hear the spectators clapping and yelling ‘Welcome Home.’ Our group was overwhelmed and almost all were visibly emotional... I will forever be thankful for the pride the parade instilled in us and for making us feel wanted and appreciated.”
Rafael Ojeda “The Auburn Veterans Parade is very important not only to honor our Veterans but to have our communities know about our veterans’ contributions to our Nation... hopefully with all of the diversity it may inspire our young men and women to serve.”
Tom Yokes “Being a veteran, I can say that being there and participating is a very rewarding experience... it allows me to show support for my fellow veterans and might help a veteran or family who needs the services Tahoma National Cemetery can provide.”
Cynthia Acosta “To me it means unity and recognition to all who have served... having our families participate, especially our children, see all the super cool parade entries and share in the importance of honoring our veterans.”
Dave Galvizo “The parade is a significant event to honor all Veterans and, as a veteran, it’s a sense of belonging and community... it provides an opportunity to make Veterans aware of the benefits available at Tahoma National Cemetery.”
Tahoma National Cemetery – Organizational Statement “For Tahoma National Cemetery, the Auburn Veterans Parade is more than a tradition – it’s a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the pride of military service and connect with the community we serve... it’s a powerful reminder of unity, remembrance, and ongoing service to our nation’s heroes.”
Jen Drummonds “One of my favorite memories is seeing the streets lined with supporters— families, school groups, and community members – all bundled up and waving, despite the cold November morning... it’s deeply moving to see people of all ages come together regardless of the weather to honor those who served.” Auburn