BULLHEAD CITY — The 1st Marine Division Association in conjunction with the Bullhead City and Administration is hosting the 13th Annual Paul Walsh Veteran’s Day Parade on Saturday, Nov. 6, at 10 a.m.
Parade Details and Community Involvement
The parade sponsors are inviting all residents, businesses and organizations to submit their float, decorated vehicle, band or other patriotic entry. Paul Walsh, a Korean War Veteran and member of the local 1st Marine Division Association, organized the first of these parades for veterans in the Bullhead City area. Known previously as the Tri-State Veterans Parade, it was renamed in honor of Walsh upon his passing, 4 years ago. Patsy Walsh, his widow, took over organizing the parade, thereafter.
Dave Heath, City of Bullhead City, Parks and Recreation Superintendent commented that the City’s Recreation Department joined in with Walsh to start the event, and the partnership flourished from there.
“Paul was just this amazing example of positivity and energy, who was certainly doing this for the right reasons,” said Heath. “His passion for this parade was infectious, and anybody he talked to about it, wanted to be involved. It’s that passion that has kept his legacy going strong to this day and why we have this fantastic parade.”
Parade Participants and Route
This years’ Grand Marshal is Sergeant Major Anthony J. Pompos USMC, Retired 1993-2021. The Mohave High School Color Guard AFJROTC will be carrying the U.S. flag and the military service flags while dressed in their military uniforms. The Mohave Accelerated Learning Center (MALC) Marching Band will also be participating. Entries from previous years have included various veterans’ organizations, car clubs, motorcycle clubs, scouts, civic clubs and Mayor Tom Brady along with the City Council.
“We are hoping to have a lot of people at the Parade to show their support for our Veterans,” said Patsy Walsh. The Veteran’s Day Parade starts at 10 a.m. and entry is free for all participants. The parade will start at Riverview Mall and travel south on Miracle Mile, ending at Scooter’s Family Fun Center.
Awards and Previous Winners
Immediately after the parade, trophies will be presented to the top 3 entries, based on being the most patriotic float at the announcer’s booth on Miracle Mile behind Swanty’s Chrysler of Bullhead City. Last year’s winners were:
- 1st Place: VFW Post 1005
- 2nd Place: 928 Desert Riders
- 3rd Place: Mohave High School AFJROTC
How to Participate
Those looking for more information about the 13th Annual Paul Walsh Veteran’s Day Parade can visit the Parks & Recreation website at: bullheadcity.com/recreation. Entry forms can be emailed to Debbie Hendren at: dhendren@bullheadcityaz.gov. Anybody with questions may contact Patsy Walsh at (928) 754-6247.
