Veterans Day

Monday has been Veterans' Day, a federal holiday in the U.S., honoring military veterans - meaning, all persons who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Since we have never before seen this parade, it was a main point on the daily agenda. But, we skipped the speech of Trump, who was present, too. It was still warm, with some hazy sun, and we went to South Street Seaport, on the Southern tip of Manhattan first thing in the morning to check out what has happened with Pier 17 (pic below) in the meantime. The rooftop is open now - great views! - and some new restaurants are there, but it's not totally accomplished yet. But, at least views are good.

The Veterans Day Parade on 5th Ave started at noon and took till almost 3 pm. United States Marine Corps was this year’s featured military branch, but also Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard were represented. Participating groups - an estimated 20-30,000 participants - included veterans of all eras, military units, civic and youth groups businesses, and top high school marching bands from across America. Floats, military and vintage vehicles and other special elements added to the enterteinment of hundreds of thousands of spectators along the route. Very patriotic, but also very moving and thought-provoking. Mayor Bill de Blasio (pic above, left, with flag) and Governor Cuomo were on the parade, too.