A Purple Heart recipient will lead Maricopa’s Veterans Day parade this year, according to InMaricopa. Sgt. Alan Rivera, a Marine who served two tours in Iraq, will head the procession on Saturday, Nov. 7.
Rivera was wounded in 2006 when an improvised explosive device detonated beneath a Humvee behind his vehicle. According to InMaricopa, he helped fellow Marines and a Navy IED team after the blast, including pulling an injured team member to safety before he was struck by another explosion. He later received the Purple Heart and the Navy Achievement Medal with a combat “V” for valor.
The parade, organized by the American Legion Auxiliary, is marking its 10th year with the theme “250 Years of Freedom.” Organizer Gabby Potter said the event has grown into a community tradition supported by schools, businesses, volunteers and city departments.
The parade will begin at 9 a.m. near Central Arizona College on Bowlin and Porter roads and end near Leading Edge Academy and Saddleback Elementary. A flyover by Stearman aircraft is planned shortly after 9 a.m., and veterans and their families are invited to a free luncheon afterward at Leading Edge Academy.
Organizers are encouraging residents to bring banners or posters honoring relatives who served, and they are also inviting first responders to join the post-parade gathering.
