Modern jets and historic fighter planes flew over Torrance. Tanks, Humvees and other military equipment rolled through Torrance Boulevard in front of thousands of spectators. And a group of young adults raised their rights hands and took the oath of enlistment.
It was all part of this weekend’s 62nd annual Torrance Armed Forces Day Parade and Celebration. The parade took place on Saturday afternoon, May 18 — on Armed Forces Day — and once again featured local dignitaries and Armed Forces leaders riding in flag-festooned classic cars. There were also more than 40 entries of bands, battalions, tanks and horse units.
“It’s the biggest event of the year,” said Mayor George Chen, greeting residents picnicking on the sidewalk after the parade. “This is to honor our military and to tell them we’re thankful for their service. We will keep this going.
” Torrance also uses the parade to annually highlight one branch of the military. This year, for the first time, it was the Space Force’s turn. “That space is critical holds true for the average American,” said parade announcer and ABC News national news correspondent Emmett Miller.
“Space capabilities, I’m sure you’re all aware of this, are woven into the very fabric of modern life.” As such, the grand marshal for the parade was Lt.Gen.
Philip A. Garrantis, commander of Space Systems Command, which is headquartered at Los Angeles Air Force Base, in El Segundo. For the Space Force to take center stage was ex.
