‘This is my country, and I’m proud of it’: Bend Veteran’s Day Parade brings cheers, tears – and pride

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)-- Gray skies and chilly temperatures did not keep the flag-waving, saluting crowds away for Monday's special, 23rd annual Bend Veterans Day Parade.

Hundreds of people lined the streets of downtown Bend Monday morning to experience the sights and sounds and show their support for the men and women who defend our country's freedom.

Humans and pets alike enjoyed the parade.

"She loves parades," Keith Daugherty said of his dog, Ruthy, "She loves this one, especially. We've been here for - she's about 4 1/2 years old, so we've been here every year. "

For many it's become a tradition - a holiday with traditions and deep meaning.

Dave Balcer said, "For me, it's Christmas, it's Easter and it's Thanksgiving. All those things are important to me."

And it's also a day full of emotions.

"I get emotional," Balcer said, "because it's such a shame the way Vietnam War veterans were treated going back - and still are. This country needs to step up and take care of our veterans."

For veterans in the parade, the thankful, flag-waving crowd was the best part of the day.

Navy veteran Jim Vaughn said, "We got to see the parade all the way down. And the patriotism and the people - the little children - it makes my heart feel happy, because this is my country, and I'm proud of it."