National Memorial Day Parade Honors Wounded Warriors
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, May 28, 2007 – Seven months ago, on Veterans Day, Army Spc. Jace Badia was carried off the battlefield in Ramadi after an insurgent bomb left him nearly dead — his left leg gone, his right leg shattered and his right arm and back broken.
A testament to the will of today’s warriors and the miracles of 21st century combat medicine, Badia today joined a handful of other wounded soldiers being carried down historic Constitution Avenue, just blocks from the nation’s Capitol, on the Grand Marshal’s float in the National Memorial Day Parade.
With thousands of onlookers cheering, Badia joined seven other wounded warriors and Hollywood star Gary Sinise to lead the parade. Six rode in the lead float, and two followed in a Hummer.
“I never in a million years thought I’d even be in a parade,” said Badia. “I’m really glad I can be out here and able to show the people that, even though I’m injured, I’m still fighting in spirit.”
As his red-white-and-blue float, sporting a golden American eagle, rolled down the 10-block route, Badia said he had one person specifically in mind – his friend and fellow infantryman, Cpl. Eric Palaciosrivera, who was killed by insurgent sniper fire three days after Badia was injured.
“I think about him every day. He was just a really good guy,” Badia said.
Badia also said he thinks about “every single serviceman who has served and died for our country.”
His message to those still serving is simple.
“Keep fighting. It’s for a good cause – freedom,” he said.
In its second [third] year, the parade drew more than 150,000 spectators. This year’s official estimates are not yet released. The parade included 160 elements, including 20 bands, youth groups, and veterans groups from every conflict since World War I. It is sponsored by the American Veterans Center, in association with the White House Commission on Remembrance.
