VETERANS' DAY PARADE WILL BE HELD AS SCHEDULED
Sen. Wagner secures funding for annual event

PITTSBURGH (Oct. 31, 2003) - Thanks to a grant sponsored by state Senator Jack Wagner, the Annual Veterans’ Day Parade will be held as scheduled. Because of Pittsburgh’s financial problems, there was some concern that the parade organizers, the Federation of War Veterans, would not be able to pay the expenses associated with holding a parade. Senator Wagner, a decorated Vietnam Veteran, would not let that happen.

"Those who have served our country and provided us with the great freedoms that we have come to expect deserve to be honored in any manner that they choose," said Senator Wagner. "What better way than a parade, which allows for a traditional public display of gratitude."

Senator Wagner was able to secure $7,000 in state funds to be used for this year’s parade. The city contributed $1,500. "After September 11th, Afghanistan, and Iraq, to not publicly recognize the contributions made by veterans would be a travesty," Wagner said. 

The Annual Veterans’ Day Parade will be held on Tuesday, November 11, 2003 beginning at the Mellon Arena at 10:30 A.M. The parade will stop at 11:00 A.M. for a moment of silence to solemnly reflect on those who were killed in action. 

"Please come to town and join my fellow veterans and me on this special day of recognition, thanksgiving, and reflection," urged Senator Wagner. 

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