For the first time, Honda Manufacturing of Alabama (HMA) associates participated in the 70th Annual Veterans Day parade on Nov. 11 in Birmingham, AL. The first Veterans Day Parade took place here in 1947 and it is the oldest and the largest parade honoring our military.

“As a service member, I’m proud to serve my country and honored to participate in the parade with our many heroes,” said Vicki Slick, an HMA associate and co-chair of HMA’s newest Business Resource Group, Military in Manufacturing. Vicki, a U.S. Air Force Technical Sergeant, served 16 years in the military including active and Reserve duty.

“The support from the community is tremendous with thousands attending the parade. I found myself very emotional over the community’s support and interacting with our veterans. I’m proud Honda is supportive of our military and participated for the first time in this milestone parade.”

Three Honda vehicles were featured in the parade, including the all-new 2018 Honda Odyssey driven by Kim Ellis, a 14-year HMA associate. Kim served 8 years in the U.S. Navy as Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class. Kim’s fellow co-worker and passenger, Carolos Chavers is a 13-year HMA associate. He served as a Corporal in the U.S. Army.

The Honda Ridgeline was driven by Slick, and Harold Holloman, a 16-year HMA associate drove the 2017 Honda Pilot. Harold served 4 years in the U.S. Navy as Quartermaster 2nd Class during the Vietnam War.