Montclair Native Buzz Aldrin Will Be Grand Marshal Of NYC Veterans Day Parade

This week will mark the 48th anniversary of New Jersey native Buzz Alrdin’s historic walk on the moon. But in November, the rock and roll astronaut will take another first step when he serves as grand marshal for the 2017 New York City Veterans Day Parade.

Aldrin, a Montclair High School alum and U.S. Air Force veteran of the Korean War, is the living embodiment of the U.S. Air Force motto of “Aim High,” said United War Veterans Council Chairman Douglas McGowan.

“From the skies over Korea to Tranquility Base, where Col. Aldrin made his historic moonwalk 48 years ago this week, he has inspired generations around the world to reach for the stars,” McGowan said. “On behalf of all our veterans, we are honored that this great American hero will lead us on November 11.”

Aldrin said that he was “proud and honored” to lead the parade.

“I took an oath at the age of 17 at West Point to serve my country, and everything I do is in service to our country that to this day,” Aldrin said. “I think it’s important to remind the world of the value of service and having pride in one’s military career and the value that veterans bring to society. I’m very proud to be a veteran and proud to stand with our vets to get them the credit and support they deserve.”

The U.S. Air Force, which is celebrating its 70-year anniversary, is the featured service for the 99th annual Veterans Day Parade. A memorial ceremony is slated to start at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 11, with a wreath-laying, flag-raising, 21-gun salute and playing of “Taps” at the Eternal Light Flagstaff in Madison Square Park to follow.

The parade steps off at 11 a.m. from 26th Street and Fifth Avenue and proceeds up Fifth Avenue to 52nd Street. About 40,000 veterans, active duty military personnel, marching bands and veterans’ supporters are expected to march past 500,000 spectators, organizers stated.

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Photo: buzzaldrin.com / Christina Korp