MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Hundreds gathered in downtown Memphis to recognize all the men and women who fought bravely for our freedom and our country.
Booming music and cheers shut down part of downtown Memphis to thank those who made it possible to even march in the streets.
Vietnam veteran Gary Newport was moved by the fanfare.
“When you came back to the states, what was that like for you?” WREG’s Elise Preston asked.
“Definitely didn’t wear my uniform. I didn’t participate in anything military until 2000 because of the way they looked at the Vietnam veterans as baby killers,” Newport replied.
6 year-old Caleb Coyle’s uncle is also a Vietnam War vet.
“I say, ‘Thank you for saving our country,’” Caleb said.
The statement made by a young child moved Newport to tears.
“Because most kids don’t get that opportunity to learn,” he said.
Korean War veteran Earl Moody also shared part of his story. The 83-year-old joined the military when he was 17 years old.
The native Memphian said he fought overseas when back at home blacks didn’t have equal rights.
“I was in Korea in 1951 when they integrated the service,” Moody said.
He’s thankful in 2015 he’s healthy enough to see things have changed.
Those who participated and attended the parade have so many different stories, but because of veterans, they can celebrate freedom.
You might think Veterans Day is just for U.S. Veterans, but Luong Nguyen with the Vietnamese Veterans Association is marching to celebrate courage from anyone who sacrificed their lives for others.
“We are very proud because we fight for our freedom,” Nguyen said.
The pride also extends to those who plan to fight. Michelle Chaidez’s teen sister wants to join the military out of high school.
“I’m glad she has the opportunity to do what she wants to do,” Chaidez said.