Mill Creek's annual Veterans Day Ceremony & Parade will take place on Wednesday, November 11, honoring all who have served in the United States Armed Forces. This year's event is especially meaningful as the nation commemorates America's 250th Anniversary.
The day's events begin with the Veterans Day Ceremony at 9 a.m. at the newly renovated and expanded Veterans Monument at Library Park (15429 Bothell Everett Hwy.). Featured speakers include Mayor Stephanie Vignal, Senator John Lovick, Representative April Berg, Stars of Valor Fellow Grace Hulse on behalf of Senator Patty Murray, World War II veteran and Parade Grand Marshal Charles "Chuck" Robinette, Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 423 Secretary Jim Cornwell, and Chaplain Nick Lewis. The Mill Creek Chorale will perform, and the ceremony will conclude with the raising of the colors by the Overlake Composite Air Patrol Squadron accompanied by bugler George Moffat.
The parade begins at 11 a.m., traveling southbound along Main Street from the former LA Fitness (15024 Main St.) to City Hall North (15720 Main St.). This year's parade will feature local veterans and their families, the Overlake Composite Air Patrol Squadron, military vehicles from the Coast Guard, Army Reserve, and National Guard, and performances by the Keith Highlanders Pipe Band, America's First Corps Bigfoot Brass Band, Snohomish High School Panther Band, Glacier Peak High School Grizzly Band, and North Creek High School Theatre Company. The parade will also showcase participants in the City's Walk With Me program, which encourages local students to walk with or in honor of a veteran in their life. Participating schools include Mill Creek Elementary, Penny Creek Elementary, and Woodside Elementary. Numerous local businesses and community organizations will also take part in the celebration.
Returning as parade emcees, Stitch Mitchell of KXA/KRKO Radio and Chris Jones of State Farm Insurance will be stationed at new locations along Main Street. Mitchell will provide commentary near Cold Stone Creamery (15415 Main St.), while Jones will be located near Frost (15217 Main St.), helping spectators follow the action throughout the parade route.
The City of Mill Creek is proud to recognize Charles "Chuck" Robinette as the 2026 Veterans Day Parade Grand Marshal. Robinette enlisted in the Army Air Force at age 17 during World War II and served from 1942 to 1945, followed by three years in the Reserves. As a Flight Engineer and Electrical Specialist with the 40th Bomber Group, 45th Squadron, he flew aboard the B-29 Black Magic and supported operations throughout India, China, and the Pacific Theater. Following his military service, he enjoyed a 38-year career with Puget Sound Power & Light and dedicated 25 years to the Bellevue Lions Club. He and his late wife shared 65 years of marriage and raised two children. Today, their family includes four grandchildren. Parade attendees can watch for Chuck and his family riding in a 1997 Lincoln limousine driven by Douglas Janes. Learn more about Robinette at millcreekwa.gov/veteransday.
Returning this year, Dick's Drive-In will offer free meals to veterans from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at its food truck near Main Street and 156th Place SE. Veterans may choose from a Cheeseburger, Deluxe, Special, or Hamburger, along with chips and a soda. Eligible guests should present military, veteran, ROTC, VA, or veterans organization identification, or a photo in uniform. Food and merchandise will also be available for purchase.
The Heroes' Café Giving Tree and Sock Drive will also return, providing the community an opportunity to support veterans during the holiday season. Look for the tree and Heroes' Café banner in the parade. Donation tags can be picked up at City Hall North after the parade through December 14.
The City extends its gratitude to event sponsors Navy Federal Credit Union and State Farm Agent Chris Jones, with special thanks to Starbucks for providing coffee to veterans and volunteers. Appreciation is also extended to the many volunteers who make this event possible, including the Mill Creek Youth Advisory Board, Kiwanis & Key Club of Mill Creek, Daughters of the American Revolution, and Veterans Day Committee members Larry Beach, Gary Walderman, and Barb Heidel.
The City also thanks the Mill Creek City Council and staff, Mill Creek Police Department, Citizen Patrol, and Public Works crews for their continued support.
For more information about the City of Mill Creek events visit millcreekwa.gov/events.