The Vault Expert: Inside the National Veterans Parade with Diane Ventura

In this episode of The Vault Expert, Patti Katter speaks with Diane Ventura, co-founder of the National Veterans Parade, about the vision, sacrifice, and determination behind creating a national event dedicated to honoring America’s veterans.

What began as a simple idea, that veterans deserve a national stage in the nation’s capital, became the National Veterans Parade, held along Constitution Avenue in Washington, D.C.

Diane shares the story behind the parade, the years of planning it took to bring the vision to life, and the personal commitment she and her husband, Fran Ventura, have made to ensure veterans are recognized in a meaningful and visible way.

The conversation also looks at the mission of the National Veterans Parade Foundation, the importance of keeping the event veteran-focused and non-partisan, and the role of sponsors, partners, volunteers, and supporters in making the parade possible without federal funding.

With the United States marking its 250th anniversary in 2026, this year’s parade carries added significance as Americans gather to honor the men and women who raised their right hand and took an oath to defend the Constitution.

Topics discussed include:

• How the National Veterans Parade began
• Diane and Fran Ventura’s vision for creating a national stage for veterans
• Why Washington, D.C. and Constitution Avenue were chosen
• The work required to build and sustain a major national veterans event
• Why the parade remains non-partisan and veteran-focused
• The importance of sponsors, partners, volunteers, and community support
• The personal sacrifice involved in keeping the parade moving forward
• Bringing Americans together around gratitude for those who served
• What attendees can expect from the 2026 National Veterans Parade and NVP5K

At its core, the National Veterans Parade is about one message:

Thank you for your service.

It is a national platform created to recognize the men and women whose service and sacrifice have helped protect the freedoms Americans continue to enjoy.

Guest: Diane Ventura

Co-Founder, National Veterans Parade

National Veterans Parade: November 8, 2026

Washington, D.C.