The Cranston Veterans Day Parade stepped off at 11:30 a.m. to make a loop down Park Avenue to Pontiac Avenue and Rolfe Street. It was decidedly local in flavor with marching bands from Cranston High School East and Cranston High School West, a local boy scout troop, the Cranston Police K-9 unit, vintage fire trucks and more.

Most of the crowd gathered near the intersection of Rolfe and Park, and warmly cheered on each marching contingent.  Army Veteran U.S. Sen. Jack Reed was the grand marshal, waving from a red convertible.

It was clear that spectators were happy to have the hometown tradition back.  The parade had not been held for about 20 years, when Mayor Ken Hopkins administration decided to restore the celebration honoring veterans. At the time, Deputy Chief of Staff Paul McAuley said it is important that the city honor the men and women who have served their country. (Beacon Media photos by Barbara Polichetti)