2012 Sierra Vista Veterans Day Grand Marshall - Colonel Bob White | Community Spirit

Retired U.S. Marine Colonel Bob White has been selected as this year’s Veterans Day Parade Grand Marshal by the Greater Sierra Vista Area United Veterans Council.  Mayor Mueller commented, “I know our veterans will feel honored to have White represent our community in this year’s parade and ceremonies.  One of the truly special attributes of our community is the number of decorated veterans and heroes who have chosen to make Sierra Vista their home.” 

White entered the Marines in 1951 and proudly served 32 years before retiring in 1983.  During his service, he completed two tours in Vietnam and was decorated with the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, and Joint Service Commendation Medal.

As a veteran, White continues to provide assistance to ensure that those serving, veterans, and survivors of veterans know their benefits.  After retiring, he served as the Director of Veterans Services for San Diego County during which he and others founded the National Coalition of Homeless Veterans STAND DOWN Program. Modeled after the Stand Down concept used during the Vietnam War, this program provides a helping hand to homeless veterans and brings them back to society by helping them to obtain their benefits earned during their military service.  

The 18th Annual Sierra Vista Veterans Day Parade will be held on Monday, November 12. The parade begins at 9:00 a.m. at Fry and Seventh, and will travel east on Fry Boulevard to Veterans Memorial Park. A short ceremony will take place immediately following the parade.  Sierra Vista residents are urged to attend the parade to honor their veterans and active duty soldiers.