WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – Thousands of people gathered in downtown Wichita Saturday to honor Kansas veterans during the annual Spirit Aerosystems Veterans Day Parade.

Marching bands, military units and approximately 80 floats celebrated this year’s parade theme: “Veterans Strong – Honoring Generations of Kansas Heroes.” Parade organizers said they wanted to specifically recognize Kansas families who have supported our military.

The parade started at Central and Main and headed southwest through downtown. The city of Wichita closed part of McLean to ease traffic congestion near Exploration Place, where post-parade activities were taking place.

A group of Marines participating in the parade said it was a chance for them to be there for the community and show their thanks and support for other veterans.

“This is an opportunity for us to show the community that we are one and proud,” said U.S. Marine Wes Topel. “But we’re out there and we just want people to see our organization and be able to thank all the other veterans who support and serve our country.”

Topel said it was a special Veterans Day parade because Sunday is the 249th birthday of the United States Marine Corps.

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