Invictus Games Foundation Represents Wounded, Injured and Sick Service Personnel at New York City Veterans Day Parade

The Invictus Games Foundation (IGF) was represented by a 20-person team at the New York City Veterans Day Parade 2025 on Tuesday, November 11, joining thousands of veterans, service members, and supporters to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States military.

Joann Tsuhako, who marched as part of the contingent, described the experience as unforgettable. “Thank you for an amazing opportunity. The friends that we met during the Veterans Day Parade made it special. Even though we are all at different stages of healing, it was all put aside and we all came together to enjoy our special day. Thank you to IGF for the experience of a lifetime.”

Organized by the United War Veterans Council, this year’s parade was the largest Veterans Day event in the country. More than 20,000 marchers, 280 marching units, 150 vehicles, and over 25 floats traveled up Fifth Avenue in Manhattan.

The parade began at 12:30 p.m. at 26th Street and Fifth Avenue and continued north to 50th Street. The Grand Marshals were Medal of Honor recipient Clinton Romesha, Marine veteran and advocate Stephen Peck, and retired Navy Captain and NASA astronaut Sunita Williams. The day began with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Eternal Light Flagstaff in Madison Square Park to honor those who lost their lives in service.

The Invictus Games Foundation’s participation was part of its “Beyond the Games” programme, which supports wounded, injured, and sick service personnel through sport and adventure-based challenges.

Thousands of spectators lined Fifth Avenue, waving flags and cheering as the Invictus Games Foundation contingent passed by. Many paused to thank participants for their service.

Fiona Cranswick, International Programmes Manager at the IGF said, “There were so many special moments today, but seeing the flag waving and being cheered by thousands of people was incredible. Being thanked for their service in this way was very moving, especially with their friends and family marching alongside them.”

The 2025 parade marked the 106th year of New York City’s Veterans Day Parade, which has been held annually since 1919. This year’s event recognized 250 years of service and sacrifice across all branches of the United States military and remains the largest celebration of its kind in the country.

With thanks to our partners Brigantes and American Airlines for their support in providing equipment and providing support with travel.

Rob Owen OBE, CEO of the Invictus Games Foundation, said, “Having members of the Invictus Community marching in the Veterans Day Parade in New York today was a moment to honour all those who have served, not just in the United States, but around the world. At the Invictus Games Foundation, we believe in the power of sport to inspire recovery and rebuild lives. Remembrance reminds us why we do this work, to celebrate the resilience, strength, and sacrifice of veterans and service personnel around the globe.”