By Tribune-Herald staff
Share this story

The Hawaii Island community on Saturday will unite once again to celebrate and honor service in all its forms from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the 18th Annual Hawaii Island Veterans Day Parade.

By honoring the past and inspiring future generations, “the parade serves as a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience and unity within the island community,” according to a press release.

ADVERTISING

“We are thrilled to partner with Hawaii County this year to provide free transportation for veterans and kupuna from across the island,” parade chair Colonel Deb Lewis (USA ret.) said in the news release. “This service ensures that those who have longed to participate in this celebration but couldn’t make it due to distance or transportation challenges, now have a way to join us. It’s an honor to make this event accessible to all.”

This year’s grand marshal is Sgt. Jerry Chang (Special Forces, U.S. Army 1967-1970), who is being honored for his lifetime of service, including as an Hawaii state representative (1988-2012) and community leader.

The community parade marshal recognizes the outstanding contributions of Vibrant Hawaii, where Hawaii Island residents come to build awareness, take action, develop relationships and meet community needs.

Finally, the business parade marshal, Ken’s House of Pancakes, has consistently supported the parade and is a shining example of businesses that uplift the community.

The parade will feature a rich variety of participants, including military units, local dignitaries, business and community floats, as well as talented bands such as the Hawaii County Band and school bands from across the island.

The high-energy Taishoji Taiko will once again captivate audiences with their rhythmic drumming, closing the event with a powerful performance.

Several organizations will display America250 flags and banners in anticipation of the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026 — a milestone known as America250.

Throughout 2025 and 2026, “communities across the islands will reflect on our shared past, celebrate our diverse heritage, and honor our veterans and ancestors through events grounded in local culture and the spirit of aloha,” according to the news release.

The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. in downtown Hilo at the intersection of Piopio Street and Pauahi Street, then travels mauka to turn right on Kilauea Avenue, then right onto Waianuenue Avenue, and finally right onto Kamehameha Avenue.

After passing the large Hawaiian Electric flag and veterans with limited mobility at the tent area near the soccer fields, the parade will conclude back at Piopio Street.

Community members and visitors are encouraged to line the streets and cheer on participants as they pass by.

For more info, visit http://hivetparade.org.