BVA members from the New York, New Jersey, and Illinois Regional Groups proudly participated in the 2025 New York City Veterans Day Parade, one of the nation’s largest celebrations honoring military service. Blinded veterans traveled to Manhattan to represent their regions and showcase the unity and strength of the BVA community.

Riding up Fifth Avenue beneath crisp November skies, BVA members joined thousands of other veterans, service organizations, and supporters. For participants, the parade was more than a public event; it was a meaningful reminder of resilience, pride, and the shared commitment to support one another.

Regional Group Coordination

District 1 Director John O’Connell welcomed members from all three states and coordinated accessible staging and arrival points, ensuring that every blinded veteran felt supported.

The New York and New Jersey Regional Groups participated in strong numbers, accompanied by caregivers, family members, and volunteer guides who embodied the type of teamwork that is central to BVA’s mission. The Illinois Regional Group, represented by President Anthony Woodson, also made the journey. Woodson, participating for the second time, described the experience as “deeply moving and unforgettable.”

A Service Emphasis

Spectators along the route offered warm thanks, salutes, and personal stories, creating powerful moments of connection. BVA members used the occasion to highlight the organization’s 80-year mission of advocating for the independence and well-being of blind and low vision veterans and their families.

Unity and Fellowship

After the parade, members gathered to share a meal, exchange stories, and reflect on the significance of the day. For the regional groups of New York, New Jersey, and Illinois, the event served as a meaningful symbol of fellowship, remembrance, and cross-state unity. The presence of BVA members in the parade was a strong reminder that while vision may fade, courage, service, and community remain unwavering.