Nov. 17, 2021 — Despite a restriction on certain events due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Florence celebrated Veterans Day on Nov. 11 in several ways.

The Veterans Honor Cruise, planned by the Veterans Day Parade Committee, began at the Florence Christian Church, looped through Historic Old Town and made its way around town. The cruise passed by the area’s three retirement facilities and included local patriotic groups, classic cars, first responders and community members. Vehicles participating in the drive-by parade were festooned with flags and streamers of red, white and blue.

The grand marshals this year were long-time local veteran advocates and former service members Tony Cavarno and Paul Gargis, both of whom were applauded by those in attendance as they made their way down Bay Street in a vintage military Jeep.

People were able to watch the cruise from multiple points, with many cheering, waving flags and holding signs.

Other events in the day included a recognition ceremony at Florence Elks Lodge #1858. There, flags representing the branches of the U.S. military were displayed and saluted. The day before, Siuslaw High School held an assembly to honor local veterans.