Several veterans organizations, as well as members of the community, turned out for a parade in recognition of Veterans Day and America’s servicemembers on Saturday, Nov. 11.

Among those who marched were members of the Homer American Legion Post 16, American Legion Auxiliary, Sons of the American Legion, American Legion Riders, the Homer Elks and Emblem Clubs, and the Anchor Point Virl “Pa” Haga VFW Post 10221.

The parade proceeded down Pioneer Avenue starting from the intersection at Lake Street, turned down Main Street to the Sterling Highway and ended at the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. A short service was presented in the visitor center’s parking lot, including a color guard and an honor guard.

American Legion Post 16 commander and Coast Guard veteran Ronald Brahm addressed the crowd gathered for the service.

“Most Americans profess to truly love our veterans, especially at gatherings like this on Veterans Day and Memorial Day, and while their feelings are sincere, it’s important to remember that veterans are defending us 365 days a year,” Brahm said. “The heroism that has been demonstrated time and time again by veterans … is sometimes unnoticed by many who enjoy the security that these sacrifices have provided.

“In times of peace and in times of war, our veterans have exemplified the values of honor, courage and commitment. They have displayed unwavering dedication to their fellow servicemembers, their brothers and sisters in arms. Their love of country is proven.

“They come from all walks of life, representing the rich tapestry of our nation. Yet when they put on their uniforms, they become an even greater power — the embodiment of the American spirit. Our debt to those heroes can never be repaid, but our gratitude and respect must last forever,” he concluded.

An auxiliary member placed a wreath upon the American Legion General Buckner Post/Unit 16 Veterans Memorial located near the front entrance of the AMNWR Visitor Center. The service concluded with a three-volley rifle salute and the playing of taps.

Members of the VFW Post 10221, American Legion Post 16, American Legion Auxiliary, Homer Elks and Emblem Clubs and members of the community march down the Sterling Highway during the Veterans Day parade on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023 in Homer, Alaska. (Delcenia Cosman/Homer News)

Members of the Homer Elks Lodge and Emblem Club marching in the Veterans Day parade wave to cars honking in greeting on the Sterling Highway by the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023 in Homer, Alaska. (Delcenia Cosman/Homer News)

American Legion Post 16 commander and Coast Guard veteran Ronald Brahm (front left) gives the address during the Veterans Day service at the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023 in Homer, Alaska. (Delcenia Cosman/Homer News)

A wreath is placed on the American Legion General Buckner Post/Unit 16 Veterans Memorial during the Veterans Day service at the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023 in Homer, Alaska. (Delcenia Cosman/Homer News)

VFW Post 10221 member Eric Henley performs the battlefield cross during the Veterans Day service, following the parade, at the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023 in Homer, Alaska. (Delcenia Cosman/Homer News)