NYC to Honor Post-9/11 Veterans with a Ticker-Tape Parade

Mayor Eric Adams will announce a ticker-tape parade in NYC's Canyon of Heroes to honor post-9/11 veterans and their families. The parade, titled "Homecoming of Heroes," is scheduled for July 6, 2026.

This momentous event aims to commemorate the service and sacrifices of military personnel who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, fighting against Al Qaeda and ISIS. The city recognizes the significant toll of these conflicts, including over 7,000 American lives lost, 53,000 wounded, and over 31,000 post-9/11 veteran suicides. Many more suffer from PTSD and illnesses due to toxic exposure.

Commissioner James Hendon of the city’s Veterans’ Services emphasizes the parade's significance as a symbol of belonging, closure, and collective pride for these veterans and their families.

The timing of the parade coincides with the International Naval Review 250, bringing fleets from around the world to New York Harbor from July 3-8, 2026, creating a powerful celebration of freedom. This will be a truly unforgettable event, mirroring previous ticker-tape parades for Gulf War veterans (1991) and Vietnam veterans (1985).