Reply #119: You bet they knew beforehand.

[vickitulsa]

Organized "big parade holiday" events like this one generally require groups to register ahead of time in some fashion; and while I wasn't involved in this case, I'm pretty sure they were told in no uncertain terms that they would NOT be allowed to march in the parade with all the other veterans. They probably knew at least a couple of days before the parade date that they would have to do something along the sidelines.

I thought they were brilliant -- and even respectful, unlike the parade officials were to them -- to do it like they did, honestly.

Not only were they well organized themselves to come up with the new signs that emphasized the SILENCE that was being imposed on them (along with the bandannas around their mouths), they had probably also received treatment similar to this on previous occasions when this group had tried to participate in parades or events.

They could have put really nasty messages on their signs, and they could have shouted and behaved obnoxiously to get attention. But instead they took the high road and used their brains to create scenes that would "speak" loudly for them without disrespecting all the other vets that were allowed to march proudly. They also didn't disrespect the onlookers who were there to enjoy the day.

But they surely made their statement, anyway, didn't they!?

I'm very proud of them for their courage, their decency, their determination, and their fine example of how veterans should act and how all people should be respected and allowed to gather and speak, in spite of how they were treated!