For the past five years, Vietnam Veterans of Coronado have made their way down Orange Avenue for the annual 4th of July parade. This year, the group wore blue shirts as they walked the parade route and some rode on a golf cart.
The Vietnam Veterans of Coronado parade entry dates back to 2021, according to organizer and Coronado resident John O’Brien.
O’Brien, a Vietnam veteran who served on a destroyer which provided gunnery support off the coast of Vietnam, said most veterans in the parade were stationed in Coronado during the conflict and stayed.
Coronado resident Mike Chase, a past Navy SEAL who served in Vietnam between 1970-71, said he has been a part of the Vietnam Veterans of Coronado entry for the past three years.
“I love my country and I’d do anything to support my country even though I’m not happy with the current administration,” said Chase. “Best thing about the parade is the respect for the average American soldier. …I’m proud that I was a part of it.”
The entry was followed by the Vietnam Veterans Of America, San Diego Chapter 472.
San Diego resident and Vietnam veteran Ralph Kurio, a member of the chapter for the past three years, said this was his first time participating in the Coronado Fourth of July parade.
An emotional Kurio said the day was a celebration of the country’s 250th anniversary, independence and freedom.
“No one will understand the PTSD except another Vietnam veteran,” said Kurio.
