We are thrilled to report that our VHPA chapter WILL be able to march at the Auburn Veteran’s Day Parade on November 7th with the UH1. While the Hands on Children’s Museum in Olympia had reserved the aircraft for its use on the 7th, we were able to negotiate an accommodation so our chapter could use it instead. All we have agreed to do is provide one or more members to help when they get their chance to display our UH1 on November 11th (the real Veteran’s Day). While Bill Vaughn has agreed to be one of those volunteers, we would like to have several more members come down to the museum to share their own experiences and knowledge. As of 10/20/26, only Bill Vaughn has agreed to visit the Hands on Children’s Museum on the 11th–on Veterans Day.

Auburn Veterans Day Parade–2026

Saturday, November 7th, 2026

Washington State VHPA Chapter members will march in the Auburn Veterans Day Parade through downtown Auburn–the largest Veterans parade in the Western US. It includes many veterans groups, as well as active and reserve military units. High school and ROTC drill teams are also expected to march with us from throughout the Northwest.

0700-0900 Breakfast

While optional, this breakfast is not free this year, so bring $12. It’s hosted by the American Legion at the Auburn Senior Center, 808 Ninth St. SE in Auburn. From Highway 18, take the Auburn Way S exit and turn left onto Auburn Way South. At the next stoplight (the intersection of F and 9th St. SE), turn left onto 9th Street and proceed two blocks east to the Senior Center next to Les Grove Park. See this link for details.

0930-1030 Meet in the Holding Area

The rally point is the intersection of G Street SE and East Main in downtown Auburn (see the map) which is one block up from last year. We will hold a formal meeting and form up adjacent to the restored UH-1H Huey provided and towed by the Olympic Flight Museum and assisted by VHPA-WA volunteers. We plan to take a group picture at this location.

Suggested March Attire

Black VHPA-WA Jackets and shirts. VHPA-WA caps or former military unit caps, khaki or tan trousers. We may not all be in uniform but let’s look sharp and be proud of our service.

1100 Parade Commences

American flags will be available to all members for the march. Those unable to march may ride in the Huey or in the truck towing it. The parade is expected to end around 1300.

November 11th– Hands on Children’s Museum UH1

On November 11th, chapter members are invited to interact with the kids and their friends and families at the Hands on Children’s Museum in Olympia. We agreed to assist the museum as they get their turn to show the UH1 on Veteran’s Day. The museum has asked for vets to come between 1100 and 1400 hrs. Those interested in joining Bill Vaughn at the Museum on the 11th should contact him at billva@betav.com.