On this colorful fall day photos began at the headquarters of the 2nd Co. Governor's Horse Guard in Newtown, CT as they loaded  the horses for departure to Hartford.

Parked next to the Connecticut State Capital Building while preparing the horses for the parade the Troopers were surprised with high winds and a few quick passing showers. 

With close to 3000 participants this is the largest Veteran's Day Parade in New England. The parade route was shorter than in years past starting near the Connecticut State Capital Building marching north up Trinity St, it then passed next to the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch, turning right onto Jewell St where it circled Bushnell Park passing the reviewing stand at Pulaski Circle.

The 2016 Honored Parade Marshals:

John (Jack) G. Casey Jr., Former DK3, U.S. Navy - Groton resident- he has dedicated his life to honoring veterans. He is an Assistant State Captain and current Board member of the CT Patriot Guard Riders, and his current mission is to collect photos of every Connecticut resident who died in the Vietnam War, giving a face to their courage and ultimate sacrifice.

Mark S. Marini, Sr., CW5, CT Army National Guard - Suffield resident- At 93, he proudly marches in uniform at every CT Veterans Parade. The World War II Army Captain was a pilot of a B-24 Liberator bomber in the Pacific from 1944 to 1946; including battles at Iwo Jima, Pagan and Marcus Island. He then served in the Air Force Reserve for 27 years, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. He preserves the history of WWII by speaking with school students of all ages.

Walter J. Hushak, LT COL (Ret.), U.S. Air Force Reserve, and CPT, U.S. Army Air Corps - Southington resident- who has 41 years of military service with the Connecticut Army National Guard, the past 17 of those as the Command Chief Warrant Officer of the CTNG’s Joint Force Headquarters. He is responsible for the formulation, development and implementation of all programs and policies affecting the Connecticut Army National Guard Warrant Officer Corps.

At the end of a Moment in Silence a C-130H personnel and cargo transport aircraft from the Connecticut Air National Guard’s 103rd Airlift Wing flew over the parade.

Commandants of the Governor's Horse and Foot Guard:

Major James Marrinan, 2nd Co. Governor's Horse Guard, Newtown, CT

Major Chris G. Miller, 1st Co. Governor's Horse Guard, Avon, CT

Major Mark Boudreau, 1st Company Governor's Foot Guard, Hartford, CT

There is a shipping fee upon check out since photographs will be shipped directly from a lab to you. All Images Copyright © Photo Art Works and Marleen Cafarelli. All Rights Reserved. Unauthorized reproduction prohibited