Veterans Day Parade New York City 2009

It was a privilege to be able to come out to pay tribute to our fighting men and women today. To be among our American warriors made me feel so many things.

Humbled by their sacrifice. Proud that I was born free in this great country. Overwhelmed by their spirit and sense of duty.

It is also nice to see veterans and their families again that I have photographed over the last 3 years of covering the parade.

The opening ceremony. Today marks the 90th anniversary of the founding of Veterans Day (1919-2009). The New York City Veterans Day parade is hosted by the United War Veterans Council and is the largest of its kind in America. The theme of today's parade is 'The Blessings of Liberty.'

This gentleman does re-enactments of the Battle of Fort Washington at Fort Tryon Park. According to history, losing this battle helped us win the Revolutionary War.

His leather strap is stamped with the word, 'Liberty.' He was quite convincing.

His ship. The 746.

FDNY Bagpipe warm-up before the parade. Always gets me right *here.* Must be the Irish in me.

One of the Tuskegee Airmen from World War 2!

A very elegant and patient Doberman named Thomson.

Helicopter gunners flying low overhead on Fifth Avenue!

The USS New York was made from the steel from the World Trade Center.

The Navajo Code Talkers!

A very heavy flag. And it was windy!

Here's the complete slide show of the parade !