ALAMOSA — The Veterans Day Parade in downtown Alamosa on Nov. 11 was a solemn, powerful tribute to Veterans. Dozens of Veterans, their families, and supporters gathered to honor their sacrifices and show their respect.  

Parade Grand Marshal was 96-year-old World War II Veteran Calvin Berry.  

At the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month, the parade paused at the intersection of Main Street and State Avenue, a moment steeped in history.  

At this time and day in November 1918, Germany and the Allies, officially ending World War I, signed the Armistice.  

James Lind with the Adams State University Music Department, then performed "Taps,” in solemn tribute. The 24-note composition dates back to the 1860s when Major General Daniel Adams Butterfield changed earlier works into what is now known as "Taps." In 2012, Congress recognized "Taps," as the National Song of Remembrance. 

Kristin Cichocki sang the national anthem. 

This was a time to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.  

Before marching in the parade, Veterans gathered in the bright sunshine. State Representative Matt Martinez said, "Veterans Day is a truly amazing day every year, and we take a day out of our busy day to recognize the honor and sacrifice that our Veterans have made for this country. I am glad to be in Alamosa today and be part of this Veterans Day itself." 

Martinez is a Veteran who served in the United States Marine Corps. 

Charlie Griego with the American Legion said, "Veterans Day is a very special day for freedom. We celebrate Veterans Day to honor them and our service members who are still active and taking care of and making sure we are free. This event is getting smaller and smaller, I hope people don't forget about it. If we don't have our veterans and active military, we don't have freedom." 

Griego was a field medical technician with the United States Navy and detached to the U.S. Marines and to a construction battalion unit. 

Veteran Michael Yohn said, "I was in the United States Army from 1970 to 1976; Veterans Day is important because it is for the Veterans of all wars. Memorial Day is for those who have sacrificed, and Veterans Day is for those who have served and are now serving, and this is very important."  

In Denver, Governor Jared Polis issued a statement that stated in part, "Today on Veterans Day, and every day, we honor Veterans through our words, expressing gratitude, but even more so, we honor those who served by ensuring we take care of them." 

On Veterans Day through Dec. 20, the Monte Vista Coop has a Military Holiday Gift Drive. Gifts to military members and their families can be dropped off at the Monte Vista Coop office, 1901 East Highway 160, Monte Vista. Call 719-852-5151 extension 1054, for details.