Celebrating Service: Mrs. Valerie R. Anderson Named Charleston Veterans Day Parade Grand Marshal
The Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System and the City of Charleston will continue their tradition of honoring America's heroes with their annual Veterans Day Parade, November 3, 2024.
This year's Grand Marshal, Mrs. Valerie R. Anderson, brings a unique perspective of military service and community dedication.
Born in Charleston and a graduate of St. Andrews High School in 1979, Mrs. Anderson recently returned to her roots after 43 years away, choosing to relocate with her husband to be closer to family. Her journey of service began in January 1982 when she joined the U.S. Air Force, where she would serve for 10 1/2 years until July 1992.
During her time in the Air Force, Mrs. Anderson worked as a supply clerk, managing crucial logistics by issuing equipment for aircraft maintenance and ordering parts. She was stationed at Lackland Air Force Base, Lowry AFB, Incirlik Air Base and Elmendorf AFB. It was during her service that she met her "Sweetie" and "Soul Mate" Wayne, marking the beginning of a personal journey that would parallel her professional one.
After her military service, Mrs. Anderson's commitment to community service took her across the country. In Alaska, she worked with the Alaska Housing Authority, helping residents secure housing assistance while simultaneously pursuing her education. Her dedication led to completing a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Education from Wayland Baptist University in Anchorage in August 1996.
Her career path then led her to Lynchburg, Va., where she demonstrated her commitment to community service by volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters during her lunch breaks while working at General Electric Insurance. Later, as a main office secretary at Sandusky Middle School, she found joy in shaping young lives and creating a welcoming environment for students, parents, and staff.
"Being selected for this honor - I feel deeply humbled and honored for a chance to share in this Special moment with loved ones, community and fellow Veterans," Mrs. Anderson shares. Her message to parade participants resonates with patriotic pride: "To all our brave Veterans and very supportive community members, we stand united with our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for your service and sacrifice. Thank you for defending our freedom, and for your unwavering commitment to our community."
As an advocate for Veteran support, she emphasizes the importance of community involvement: "We can best support Veterans in our community by volunteering your time at VA hospitals and local Veterans organizations. Advocate for Veterans policies, host community events to raise awareness. Help Veterans get medical care and other resources. Listen and understand us."
Now settled in Charleston for the past two years, Mrs. Anderson continues to serve through her volunteer work at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center. Her free time is filled with meaningful activities, including traveling with her husband, spending time with family, participating in church activities and volunteering with her sorority sisters.
Valerie not only volunteers at her local VA she is an active member of her church the Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church in North Charleston. She is an integral member of the hospitality and military outreach ministries there. She is also an active member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.
When asked about her favorite aspect of being a Veteran, Mrs. Anderson highlights the "strong sense of camaraderie and shared purpose with fellow service members that understands our unique experience of military service." Her hobbies reflect a joy for life, including listening to gospel and smooth jazz, walking, biking, dancing, singing, baking, and playing Uno.
As Charleston prepares to celebrate Veterans Day, Mrs. Anderson embodies the spirit of service, community engagement and the enduring bonds that connect all who have served. Her journey from Air Force Veteran to community leader demonstrates the continued impact of military service long after the uniform is retired.
Parade Information: Sunday, November 3, 2024
Order of Events:
12:30 p.m. Speaker and National Anthem
1:00 p.m. Flyover, Parade Starts
3:00 p.m. Estimated Finish Time
Parade Route:
Begins at Concord St. and Market St. Continues West on Market St. to East Bay St. Continues South on East Bay St. to Broad St. Continues West on Broad St.
Ends at Colonial Lake.