That's how Fresno's 93rd veterans day parade began.
It didn't always used to be this big.
Many people thank Bill Dietzel for that.
"Give thanks america, for the freedom our heroes fight for."
Veterans day started as "Armistice Day" during world war one.
The world hoped we'd never see fighting like that again.
"I went back into France, Belgium, Germany..."
Joe Rivas answered the call to fight in World War II.
It's a sacrifice that's not forgotten.
"Everybody that sees me says 'thank you' for serving, and I get a lot of compliments for doing what I did..."
But there's another flag in joe's home that also makes him proud.
"I'm the one that took the german flag down, I have it at home, their headquarters, we took over their headquarters."
Among the thousands of people at today's parade are people still fighting.
"I've been in the military 33 years now, reserves, and I've been deployed three times, I just got back from Afghanistan three years ago."
Amid the celebration there are somber reminders.
"My unit is due to deploy in two years."
America is still at war.
And people like Alvarez are still laying their lives on the line.
For the benefit of generations young and old.
"I got to remember all the people that sacrificed their lives so me and my children can live free in this country."
Everyone that serves makes a tremendous sacrifice.
But just seeing the people they protect giving up one Sunday means a lot.
"I'd just like to thank all the people here giving us this honor. Especially today for the veterans, I'll appreciate it for all they've done for us."
TXT 24
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