Dearborn Native, US Air Force Captain Will Lead Memorial Day Parade

DEARBORN, MI — Dearborn native and United States Air Force Captain Mayssa M. Ouza as Grand Marshal at Dearborn's 97th annual Memorial Day Parade.

Ouza currently serves as legal counsel in the Victims’ Counsel Division of the United States Air Force.

"I am extremely humbled to be selected as Grand Marshal of the Dearborn Memorial Day Parade," Ouza said. "Since the beginning of my Air Force journey, the people of Dearborn have been by my side every step of the way, and it is a privilege to represent them as their upcoming Grand Marshal."

In 2020, Ouza became the first Muslim to wear a hijab in the Air Force after advocating for a change in the Air Force's policy. The United States Air Force has since changed its uniform policy, ensuring others like her can serve in hijab.

Ouza has been an ambassador for the Arab American veteran community and other underrepresented groups throughout her career.

"This is a time to honor our fallen veterans, and reflect on the ultimate sacrifice they made for our nation," Ouza added. "We also acknowledge that our veteran community represents the many identities that make up this country’s fabric."

The parade, which will recognize "Arab Americans who Served," will move through Dearborn streets on Memorial Day at 9:30 a.m. This year, the parade has a new route, which will move westward on Michigan Ave, starting at Nowlin Street and ending at S. Brady Street.

"We’re honored to welcome Captain Maysaa Ouza as our Grand Marshal. Captain Ouza has served our nation honorably and has widened the arms of public service through both her example and her leadership," Dearborn Mayor Abdullah H. Hammoud said. "I hope everyone comes out to the parade and joins us in honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice."