MIDTOWN — Thousands of people gathered along Fifth Avenue to celebrate the service of men and women in the military during the city's annual Veterans Day parade Wednesday.
"Today's incredibly significant. It's a wonderful time to pause and reflect and honor those who served in the past and who are still serving in defense of our freedom," said Lt. Seph Coats, 41, who's been in the navy for the past 18 years.
About 20,000 people, making up 250 different groups, began marching from 26th Street to 52nd Street at 11:25 a.m., organizers said.
Marchers included veterans, active military personnel, civic groups, youth groups and marching bands on foot, floats and old military vehicles, organizers said.
"I'm glad to see the turnout. I was spit upon when I came back from the east. It's nice now to be welcomed. It's great, but it wasn't then," said 76-year-old Army veteran Patrick Walsh, who served in Korea and Vietnam.
The parade began after an opening ceremony at Madison Square Park, organizers said.
The ceremony began at 10 and concluded with a wreath laying at 11:11 a.m., commemorating the end of World War I, organizers said.
Mayor Bill de Blasio spoke during the event, urging businesses to do more to help veterans.
"Our veterans deserve our support and our embrace. There's more to be done. More need jobs. We're going to keep at it," the mayor said.
"Hire a veteran. It makes all the difference."
