LAGUNA BEACH : Gulf War Veterans Sought for Parade

Vietnam veterans are inviting men and women who served in the Gulf War to march in next week’s Laguna Beach Patriot’s Day Parade.

Over the past six years, about 100 veterans have signed up for the gathering and at least that many are expected to participate this year, said Patrick J. Freeman, who is helping to organize the March 7 event.

“It’s the welcome home parade we never got,” Freeman said.

Veterans from earlier wars will be organized separately, Freeman said. Since those who served in the Gulf War may not be well-organized yet, they are being invited to join the Vietnam vets, Freeman said.

The veterans will march along the six-block route as a group. They are encouraged to wear their uniforms.

“They can bring the kids and their spouses and their friends,” he said. “It’s a real fun hometown kind of parade.”

Veterans will meet on the Laguna Beach High School football field at 625 Park Ave. between 9 and 10 a.m. The parade begins at 11 a.m.

Those interested should call Freeman at (714) 497-1861 or Laguna Beach Police Officer James White at (714) 497-0701.