FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Brie Turek (407) 246-3106
Heather Allebaugh (407) 246-3423, onsite (407) 383-6822

THIS IS AN ARCHIVED RELEASE

Orlando Salutes Our Veterans at 7th Annual Veterans Parade in Downtown Orlando

Mayor Buddy Dyer Leads Patriotic Parade
Representing Nation’s Eras of War

ORLANDO, FL (November 8, 2005) – Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and his Veterans Advisory Council will pay tribute to the courageous men and women who serve our country by hosting the 7th Annual Orlando Veterans Day Parade on Saturday, November 11, 2006, at 10 a.m. in Downtown Orlando.

Mayor Dyer will lead the parade, which represents the American Revolution, Civil War, World War I, World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Desert Storm and Present/Active Duty, with military units, floats, marching bands, ROTC units, honor guards and representatives from Central Florida’s Veterans organizations. This year marks the 65th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. In remembrance of that day, Pearl Harbor survivors and ex-POWs will serve as Grand Marshals for this year’s parade.
“It is important that our community honors the dedication and commitment of the men and women who bravely serve our country. I am proud of the work my Veterans Advisory Council, does in planning tribute and educational activities to remember this important day,” said Mayor Dyer.

"The Orlando Veterans Day Parade is one of the Mayor’s Veterans Advisory Council’s largest events,” said Paul Hay, Council Chairman. “We are very proud to have this national holiday dedicated to veterans and the Council is honored to plan and host a parade with Mayor Dyer in tribute of the men and women who serve and have served our country."

The parade route begins at Amelia Street and Orange Avenue, travels south on Orange Avenue, then east on Central Boulevard, north on Rosalind Avenue and ends at Amelia Street. More than 5,000 spectators are expected to line the parade route showing support for active duty, reserve military and National Guard veterans for their contributions and service to the nation. Parking information is available at cityoforlando.net.

Proud supporters of this event include the Orlando Utilities Commission, Brighthouse and the Downtown Development Board. For more information visit cityoforlando.net.

INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES:
WHO: Mayor Buddy Dyer, District 1 City Commissioner Phil Diamond, District 2 City Commissioner Betty T. Wyman, District 3 City Commissioner Robert Stuart, District 4 City Commissioner Patty Sheehan, District 5 City Commissioner Daisy Lynum, District 6 City Commissioner Samuel Ings, and Grand Marshals including ex-POWs and Pearl Harbor survivors.
WHEN: 9:30 a.m. – 10 a.m. at the start of the parade
WHERE: There will be a media staging area at the corner of Orange Avenue and Central Blvd. (In front of the Wachovia Bank building)

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