04/27/2026
Channel 6 News
Brooke Cox
April 27, 2026 09:36 AM
McAlester Armed Forces Day Parade returns with nearly 80-year tradition
MCALESTER, Okla. -A decades-long tradition honoring the nation’s military is returning to McAlester, with organizers preparing for one of the longest-running Armed Forces Day parades in the country.
The annual celebration, which dates back to 1947, will include a downtown parade, a community luncheon and recognition of a new branch of service as part of this year’s events.
A tradition dating back to 1947
Organizers say the parade began shortly after World War II, when Congress combined separate military observances like Army Day and Navy Day into a single Armed Forces Day.
“That was our first year to hold it,” McAlester Armed Forces Day Committee Chairman Jeff Wolf said.
The event has continued for nearly 80 years, growing alongside the community and its ties to the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant, a major local employer.
What’s planned for this year’s events
This year’s celebration carries the theme “America 250,” recognizing the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
Events begin a luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant on May1st. And the parade begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 2nd, in downtown McAlester.
Organizers say the parade will also feature attractions like the Big V Clydesdales, a crowd favorite.
Space Force honored for the first time
For the first time, the event will honor the U.S. Space Force as part of its rotating recognition of military branches.
Wolf said Lt. Col. Marquay Edmondson will serve as the guest speaker at the luncheon.
He said the Space Force plays a critical role in protecting the country, particularly in the cyber domain.
“The threat that we receive as a nation on a daily basis from foreign entities through cyber attacks is amazing,” Wolf said. “It’s a constant barrage every day, and the United States Space Force puts those to bed all the time. We don’t even know it.”
A community showing support for veterans
Wolf said the event has long been about showing appreciation for service members, especially veterans.
When looking back at historic parade photos, some dating to the 1950s, he said the community’s support stands out.
“We want to pack the streets to show these vets that we love them,” Wolf said.
Nearly eight decades of honoring service
As the parade approaches its 80th year, organizers say the tradition continues to bring the community together in recognition of those who have served.
Wolf said the event’s longevity is a testament to the people who have supported it over the years.
“We have a wonderful committee and these people that come to the table weekly to make this thing happen,” he said. “I couldn’t do it without them.”
