The Chicago Defender Charities held its annual Veteran's Day Parade in Bronzeville on Dr. Martin Luther King drive , starting from 43rd St. (Muddy Waters Drive) and ending at the Victory Monument on 35th and King Drive. ROTCs and Marching High School bands were in military dress as they marched with precision and discipline honoring Veterans in the 2010 parade.
The Victory Monument
was dedicated November 11, 1928 on Armistice Day. The bronze panels surrounding the base of the monument were sculpted by Leonard Crunelle, as well as the soldier standing on the top of the monument later added in 1936. The monument was erected by the people of Illinois in memory of the Black soldiers who died in France from the 8th Infantry of the Illinois National Guard during World War I which was reorganized as the 370th Infantry of the 93rd Division of the United States Army.
Thousands were present at the dedication ceremony where Governor Len Small delivered the principal address honoring the one hundred and thirty seven men who died serving their country. This monument, according to Governor Small, was the first in Illinois and the United States erected to honor Black soldiers who fought in World War I.
Wreaths were placed and community leaders and politicians spoke in a ceremony honoring Veterans at the Victory Monument.
Buffalo Soldiers celebrate Veterans Day 2010 at the Victory Monument in Bronzeville.
Parade organizer, Colonel Eugene Scott and community resident, Cyd Langston
Colonel Eugene Scott smiles at a little one at the event.
Tuskegee Airman, James J. McCastle
shows his Air Force papers. He graduated from high school at age 16
and joined the air force at age 17 because he wanted to learn to fly.
Chicago Defender Fine Arts Writer, Earl Calloway and Mayoral candidate,
William Dock Walls
Chicago Defender Fine Arts Writer, Earl Calloway, Aki Antonia and Mayoral candidate,
William Dock Walls
(Click on photos to enlarge)
All photos by Aki Antonia c2010
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