UTC Employee Veterans March in Connecticut Veterans Parade

Approximately 40 United Technologies veterans from across the company came together to march in the Connecticut Veterans Parade in Hartford, Conn., on Nov. 3. The largest veterans parade in New England featured more than 3,000 marchers, 150 military and veterans groups and 20 musical units. Thousands of spectators lined the streets waving American flags and holding signs that read, "Thank you."

UTC has a rich history of supporting veterans activities, and has been the parade's presenting sponsor since its inception 14 years ago. UTC currently employs nearly 10,000 veterans throughout the United States and more than 3,000 in Connecticut.

"The parade is a great opportunity to remember and thank veterans for their service to the community and to the country. Both the veterans marching in the parade and those supporting along the route have a mutual respect for their service and enjoy a camaraderie that goes beyond words," said Bill Quesnel, tool coordinator with SLS and chair of the UTAS Veterans Employee Team and co-organizer of UTC's participation in this year's parade. Quesnel is a veteran, having served in the Army and the Connecticut National Guard.

This year's parade gave a special salute to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the end of the Korean War and to recognize all that had served. Also featured were musical units including Central Connecticut State University's marching band, fife, pipe and drums units, and middle and high school bands. Before the start of the parade there was a special wreath laying ceremony at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch located in Bushnell Park.

Veterans Day is observed on Nov. 11 every year and UTC business units planned local celebrations to honor employee veterans. For those who haven't served, the day presents an opportunity to show gratitude and support.

The 2014 Connecticut Veterans parade is scheduled for November 2.