“Sometimes, women veterans are the silent force behind the force,” USAF Staff Sergeant Betty Hart.  “I want to ask all of you to create space for us women veterans, just like it was intentionally done here today. I see you, my service sisters!” 

The City of Aurora created a unprecedented moment – and intentional space – on during the 2021 Veterans Day Ceremony by honoring the first-ever Grand Marshals of the Aurora Veterans Day Parade: women veterans.  Although the parade was called off due to inclement weather, these phenomenal women were still honored for their service to our country and our community during the communitywide ceremony. 

“Although you couldn’t lead the parade units today, you lead in our community every day in many ways,” said Mayor Richard. C. Irvin, an Army veteran.  “As we come together as one Aurora, it is essential to make sure all of our stories are shared with current and future generations. And that is why it is important to salute our women veterans today because we know your stories are not always fully shared in the veteran’s experience. We thank you. We salute you. We honor you.”

Through its Equity & Inclusion Department, the City of Aurora will continue to build upon the Women Veterans distribution list for future events. All women veterans in or from Aurora, can register at: