Mesa honors veterans with parade Nov. 11

The annual East Valley Veterans Parade will honor our nation’s veterans at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11, in downtown Mesa.

With nearly 100 entries, the parade begins at the intersection of Center Street and University Drive. It will travel south on Center Street and turn west on First Street. The parade will continue on First Street to Robson, where it will end.

More information about the parade is available at evvp.org.

This year’s theme is “Ready Then, Ready Now” honoring 250 years of readiness and resilience of America’s Armed Forces.

The 2025 East Valley Veterans Parade grand marshal is Retired Marine Cpl. Bob Brutinel. Brutinel, now 101, dropped out of high school at age 18 to join the Marines during World War II and served in the South Pacific Theater. While at Iwo Jima, he was on the first wave and carried a flamethrower and packets of C2 explosives. Using those fiery weapons, fellow Marines were able to advance through the heavy, deadly fighting. Later in the battle, a sniper’s bullet across the bridge of his nose came inches from taking his life. For his actions and courage, Brutinel was awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart for his wounds.

Mesa’s Veterans Day commemorative activities begin with a recognition at 10:30 a.m. The program will include remarks from Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman.