A fighter jet captured attention in Southern California as it was towed through the streets of Torrance with a police escort, marking the start of preparations for the 64th annual Armed Forces Day celebrations.
Aerial footage showed the F-5 being moved from Torrance Airport to City Yard around 10:30 p.m. on Thursday. The aircraft was later unveiled for the weekend festivities.
This initiative is part of a significant military display leading up to Saturday’s parade.
The public will get their first glimpse of the aircraft starting at 10 a.m. on Friday, providing an opportunity to check out the military hardware featured this year.
Meanwhile, various military vehicles and equipment have also been set up in parking lots around the city.
Saturday’s main parade is slated for 1:30 p.m. along Torrance Boulevard, promising to draw a large crowd of participants and spectators, continuing a local tradition.
Since its inception in 1960, when Mayor Al Eisen collaborated with the Torrance Chamber of Commerce to honor U.S. military personnel, the parade has become a staple of the community.
Over the years, this event has evolved into one of the most notable military celebrations in the country and holds the title of the longest-running military parade in the United States.
Officials estimate that the parade typically draws around 100,000 attendees and features approximately 8,000 participants, showcasing military units, vehicles, and floats.
In its early years, the celebration included fireworks on Friday night behind City Hall, a Saturday morning parade, and a day full of public military displays.
This year, Torrance Transit will offer complimentary shuttle services. Parking will be available at the Mary K. Giordano Transit Center, situated at 465 Crenshaw Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503.
