Houston Hails Gulf Veterans With Parade

Thousands of people turned out Saturday to observe Operation Celebration--the city’s welcome home for troops who took part in the Persian Gulf War.

“We thought it made eminent sense to show our appreciation to the Desert Storm troops at the same time we show our appreciation to veterans of all past wars,” said Kenneth Lay, chairman of the event. “It further enhances the event and gives the Desert Storm troops special recognition.”

A huge American flag was draped across the front of one skyscraper, and yellow ribbons and American and Texas flags adorned light poles and trees. Observers said parade watchers were six-deep on one street.

With the exception of several high school bands, only military units and equipment took part in the parade, led by retired Army Lt. Gen. Thomas W. Kelly, who briefed the media daily from the Pentagon during the war.

Kelly noted during his opening remarks the soldiers from Houston who lost their lives in the war, and asked for a moment of silence.

“Through their efforts and the efforts of about 542,000 other Americans, we can celebrate something that hasn’t been celebrated in this country since the end of World War II. We can celebrate victory,” Kelly said.

Houston’s Main Street was renamed “Welcome Home Way” for the celebration. Marine Cpl. Scott Paxton, who served in the Persian Gulf, placed a street sign bearing the new name on the main thoroughfare through downtown on Thursday.

“It really made me feel proud, and it just reminds me how (Houston residents) really pull together and welcome the people back home . . . and make them feel special for doing a job they had to do,” he said.