SAN ANTONIO – More than 173,000 veterans call San Antonio home, but this year’s Veterans Day parade in downtown took on a different tone as the ongoing government shutdown forced changes to the traditional celebration.
The annual parade, which typically draws thousands to honor service members’ sacrifices, faced a notable absence this year.
Army and Navy participation, usually contributing about 50 troops to the event, was canceled due to the federal government shutdown.
Despite these challenges, the veteran community’s resilience shined through.
“Military service isn’t something that is just once a year or just during deployments. It’s literally a 365 day job and it’s not easy,” said Grant Moody, Bexar County Commissioner.
The spirit of adaptability, a hallmark of military service, was evident in how the community responded.
“You’re able to take any situation, as most veterans do when we’re in the military, basically making lemonade out of lemons,” said Rex Enriquez of Mission Focus Coaching for Veterans.
For many veterans, these celebrations serve a crucial role in maintaining connections within their community.
“When we get out, we lose that tribe,” Enriquez explained. “These types of celebrations bring us back together. When we’re together, we speak the same language, we’ve gone through the same things, and we’re able to bring together that solidarity to help push ourselves forward in life.”
Despite the challenges posed by the government shutdown, the event demonstrated the strength of San Antonio’s veteran community.
The focus remained on celebration and mutual support rather than the limitations imposed by current circumstances.
“We’re still here. We’re celebrating. We love one another because we’re here,” Enriquez said. “We’re coming together as a community because we care for one another, not just as veterans, but as human beings, as Americans. So I think I have hope.”
The modified parade served as a testament to the veteran community’s ability to adapt and maintain their bonds, even when faced with unexpected challenges.
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