Make plans now to attend Jacksonville’s Annual Veterans Day Parade on Wednesday, Nov. 11 in Downtown Jacksonville. The parade begins at EverBank Field at 11:01 a.m. and proceeds west on Bay Street to the Prime Osborn Convention Center.

The Grand Marshal for this year’s parade is retired Major General Michael D. Healey, United States Army. General Healy was the inspiration for the John Wayne movie “The Green Berets.” General Healy, or “Iron Mike” as he is known in the Special Forces community, served with valor during five tours in Vietnam. He was recognized with the Distinguished Member of the Special Forces Regiment Award. During his 35-year career, Major General Healy was the recipient of three Distinguished Service Medals, two Silver Stars, the Legion of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, seven Bronze Stars with Valor, two Purple Hearts and many more awards.