Marching on: Beale shows support in Veteran's Day parade

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Sarah Gregory
  • 9th RW Public Affairs
BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif., (ACCNS) --  More than 300 Beale members donned their uniforms, marched, waved and handed out candy at the Marysville Veterans Day Parade Nov. 11. 

Several squadrons and military organizations had parade displays but the largest was a mass formation of 260 Beale military members led by the base honor guard and 9th Reconnaissance Wing leadership. 

"The Veterans Day parade is a visible and fitting way to honor those who came before us as well as those who are currently serving," said Brig. Gen. Robert "Bob" Otto, 9th RW commander. "It was reaffirming and heartwarming to see the strong community support for Beale Airmen." 

In addition to the main formation, Beale participants represented almost every major squadron on base. 

Military working dogs and their handlers from the 9th Security Forces Squadron were on hand, as well as fire trucks from the 9th Civil Engineer Squadron; a 9th Physiological Support Squadron float with U-2 high-pressure altitude suits and a 940th Air Refueling Wing formation. 

Many of the parade organizers were retired military members, former military or Beale members, including Airman 1st Class Laura Henkenmeier, 9th Logistics Readiness Squadron, who said that planning the parade is a year-long process. 

"We pretty much begin right after the previous parade ends. There's a lot of coordination," the Quincy, Ill., native said, adding that the work was worth it because the parade "Is a way to pay respect to the veterans and show support." 

A member of the NCO Association and the American Legion, Airman Henkenmeier has been involved with parade planning for the past two years. She recommends that people interested in volunteering get in touch with Staff Sgt. Patrick Willis, the chairman for the Sierra NCO Association at 634-9480. 

For some people marching in the parade has become a tradition. 

Staff Sgt. William L'Huiller, 9th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, has marched five times during his seven-year assignment to Beale. "It's something fun and good to do for the community," he said. 

Other military members visited with the community and handed out goodies such as candy to children. 

Cesar Garcia Jr, age 9, said his favorite part of the parade was the Beale military formation. "The big ole squad of troops was good."