Huge number come out for 6th Annual Moco Veteran’s Day Parade

People lined the streets in Oldtown Salinas Friday, thanking those who’ve served our country. The great turnout at the Salinas Veteran’s Day Parade included vets who served in Iraq and Afghanistan and even a few World War Two vets.

The Sixth Annual Monterey County Veteran’s Day Parade continues to take off.

“Every year we keep thinking that it’s not going to get any bigger, and I keep saying that every year, and this year is just amazing. last year we had about 89 participants, this year, last week we were over 100,” said Event Organizer Tony Virrueta.

For the first time in it’s six years, parade organizer Tony Virrueta was actually in the parade, seeing the event from a different perspective.

“it’s quite humbling, it’s quite humbling and fortunate that we’re back here. We’re back here in one piece and we’re able to celebrate this. And to see a lot of these veterans out here and especially those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, to honor them on this day, and their families,” said Virrueta.

Tony was one of many veterans humbled by the crowds.

“I loved it, it was great. The people were nice and they all wished us a happy Veteran’s Day and it was an awesome experience,” said Iraq/Afghanistan War Veteran, Scott Adessa.

“I’m pleased to see the younger generations get involved with this…these fans. It’s good!” said World War Two Veteran, George Elliott.

“I think they’re getting better, bigger and better and better. There’s so much enthusiasm with the people out in the crowd and it’s wonderful,” said World War Two Veteran, Ray Morasca.

Following the election, these veterans weighed in on President-Elect Trump, the incoming Commander-in-Chief.

“I voted for Donald Trump and I’m hoping he keeps to his promises and takes care of veterans,” said Adessa.

“You know we had a choice, and it was a difficult choice for everybody, but I think the people made the right choice,” said Morasca.

“We’ll see how good he is,” said Elliott.

Politics aside, our local heroes are grateful to those that came out and hope to see them all again next year.

“I’m proud of it and I’m glad to see it continue. And i think it will continue,” said Elliott.

“I just want to throw them a kiss and give them a huge cause I point out at them and they point back and wave and give a big smile,” said Morasca.

“Pride. That’s the only word that comes to my mind right now. We’re just proud. We’re proud to be veterans, we’re proud to see all the support out here, families of veterans, just a lot of pride out here,” said Virrueta.