The City of Torrance proudly hosted the 62nd Annual Armed Forces Day Parade this afternoon commemorating the dedication and sacrifices of the United States Armed Forces.
This year’s Grand Marshal was served by United States Space Force Lieutenant General Philip A. Garrant, Commander of Space Systems Command, headquartered at Los Angeles Air Force Base. Honorary Grand Marshal was United States Space Force Colonel Michael S. Hopkins, NASA astronaut.
Torrance Mayor George K. Chen said, “This longstanding tradition embodies the spirit of patriotism and gratitude to our men and women of the Armed Forces, past and present. Today’s successful event is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our military personnel and the incredible efforts of our community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the participants and all City departments and staff who helped organize this magnificent tribute, reminding us all of the sacrifices made by our Armed Forces, and the strength we find in unity and appreciation.”
This year’s parade featured an impressive lineup of nearly 70 entries including esteemed military officials, local dignitaries, veterans, various community groups, and military units and equipment from various branches. The parade kicked off with a prologue led by the Torrance Police Department Motor Detail and the Joint Services Color Guard, setting a patriotic tone for the event. Hundreds of parade goers and fans lined up along Torrance Boulevard cheering on the 300th Army Band, North and South High and Richardson Middle School’s Band and Color Guard, West High’s Entertainment Unit, and Bishop Montgomery High School’s Thunder by Knight Music. Community and veteran groups such as the World War II Veterans, Montford Point Marine Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars District 4, and the Vietnam Veterans of America South Bay Chapter 53 to name a few, added to the diversity and richness of the parade. And thanks to the Western Museum of Flight, vintage warbirds were seen making nearly a dozen appearances in the sky throughout the 90 minute parade. All branches of the military participated from the United States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard to this year’s honorary branch, the United State Space Force.
Live coverage and various highlights of the Armed Forces Day parade, military exhibit, and 5K can be seen on the City’s YouTube, Facebook and Instagram platforms as well as the full recording of the parade on Torrance CitiCABLE. For more information go to TorranceCA.Gov/AFD.
