As the city came together to commemorate the service and sacrifice of its veterans, the streets of Manhattan were filled with the patriotic spirit of the 105th annual Veterans Day Parade. Marchers and spectators alike braved the mild November weather, following a path steeped in tradition up Fifth Avenue. This year's event, held this afternoon, was deemed the largest in the nation to honor military service, with an estimated 20,000 participants joining the procession.

According to FOX 5 New York, the grand marshal leading the parade was Sgt. Dakota Meyer, noted for being the second-youngest living Medal of Honor recipient. Strengthening the ties that bind us to the past and present defense of our freedoms, Meyer, recognized for his valor in Afghanistan, personified the courage and commitment held in the highest regard on this day.

The parade kicked off from 26th St. and 5th Ave., with its conclusion around 47th St. and 5th Ave., encompassing the heart of the city. It began at 12:30 p.m. and was expected to wrap up by 3 p.m., as detailed by CBS News New York. Street closures were widespread, with key arteries like Broadway between West 23rd Street and West 29th Street, and 5th Avenue between West 23rd Street and West 26th Street shut down to accommodate the show of respect and remembrance.

In a show of remembrance preceding the parade, a wreath-laying ceremony was scheduled to take place in Madison Square Park just before 11 a.m. This gesture of respect and the subsequent parade came on a day that saw the closure of federal offices, banks, schools, and post offices in a pause of everyday hustle to reflect on the contributions of service members.

While government services took a day off, most restaurants and stores remained open, though adjustments to business hours were at the discretion of individual establishments.