The 8 Foundation Volunteers Honor Veterans Day in Mesa
By Samanta He
Today, November 11th, 2025, the 8th Foundation volunteer group celebrated Veterans Day by participating in the annual East Valley Mesa Veterans Day Parade in Mesa, AZ. Our organization was proud to be part of this special event, made possible by the tremendous effort of dedicated individuals like our organizer, Jayden’s mom. She went above and beyond—arriving early to coordinate our team, set up group photos, and guide everyone to the gathering area. All of our volunteers waited patiently in the morning and were offered drinks and doughnuts as a light breakfast for their early arrival.
The parade itself was a wonderful celebration of patriotism, with communities coming together to show appreciation for America's veterans. We saw a group of riders on magnificent motorcycles, each flying a large American flag waving boldly in the air. Another family showcased their collection of pristine antique cars—a rolling museum of American history.
This year's parade was especially meaningful, as it honored the 250th anniversary of the nation's three oldest military branches: the Army, Navy, and Marine Corps. We saw a few impressive modern military vehicles alongside multiple historical displays, connecting the past with the present. Although our volunteers stood in the sun for nearly two hours, every one of them persevered with great spirit. The parents were incredibly cooperative, and the children didn't complain at all—a truly admirable effort.
We marched down N. Central Street for about one mile, between Fitch Park and W. 1st Street, which had been cleared specifically for this grand parade. Spectators were thrilled by the breathtaking jets and helicopters soaring overhead, leaving white trails across the sky. The vintage aircraft flying in formation looked as if they had come straight out of history books, adding to the sense of tradition.
It was an incredibly fun and meaningful experience to walk through the streets knowing we were participating in a great event honoring our nation's heroes. The excitement was amplified by the hundreds of families who lined the route—their cheers serving as a constant reminder of the unity that defines this holiday. At the end of the parade, volunteers were treated to BBQ hotdogs, a perfect reward for their hard work. The entire event was a great success, leaving everyone with a deep sense of fulfillment and joy—a fitting tribute to our veterans and a proud moment of community involvement for the 8th Foundation volunteers.
