Monroe County Holds Fifth Veterans Day Parade in Rochester
Monroe County’s fifth annual Veterans Day Parade took place in Rochester on Saturday, November 7, 2026, honoring military veterans and active-duty personnel. The event, announced by Monroe County, featured New York State Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt as Grand Marshal and a commemorative ceremony at Highland Park.
The parade began at 10:30 a.m. at the intersection of South Goodman Street and Highland Avenue. From there, the procession traveled along Highland Avenue toward the Greater Rochester Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Gary Beikirch Park on South Avenue.
The City of Rochester listed the free public event from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Residents were encouraged to line the route in red, white and blue, while motorists were advised to expect temporary street closures and traffic detours.
Grand Marshal Honors Military Service
Monroe County identified Senator Rob Ortt as a U.S. Army National Guard veteran who enlisted following the September 11 attacks and served during Operation Enduring Freedom.
Ortt received the Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal, Afghan Campaign Medal and Combat Infantryman’s Badge. He represents New York’s 62nd Senate District, covering parts of Monroe County and all of Niagara and Orleans counties.
Previous parade Grand Marshals included Honor Flight, Monroe County Sheriff Todd Baxter and radio personality Alan “Brother Wease” Levin.
Veterans and Community Groups Participate
The parade featured musical marching units, veterans’ organizations, law enforcement, military-style vehicles, active-duty personnel and groups representing different eras and military branches.
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello emphasized the event’s community significance.
“This year’s parade is an opportunity for the community to show our appreciation for all of our veterans, including our grand marshal, Senator Ortt,” Bello said.
“My administration is committed to honoring our heroes not only on Veteran’s Day, but year-round with programs and policies that show our unwavering gratitude for their service.”
Memorial Ceremony Concludes Procession
The Patriot Guard Riders of New York were assigned to lead the procession and establish a 3-by-5-foot American flag line at the memorial to salute arriving participants.
The memorial ceremony included scheduled guest speeches and ceremonial honors recognizing local military service members.
The procession connected Rochester’s annual community tribute with remembrance at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, bringing together veterans, serving personnel and residents ahead of Veterans Day on November 11.
