Meet Chuck Atkinson, Our Independence Parade Marshal!

Mainstreet Oceanside presents this year’s Independence Parade on July 1, 2017 at 10 A.M. starting on Coast Highway and Wisconsin Avenue. No parade would be complete without a Grand Marshall, and this year’s Grand Marshall is Chuck Atkinson.

Atkinson has a long career in the military and has served in the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Marine Corps, and the U.S. Air Force Reserves.

“I think the Independence Parade brings the community together,” said Chuck. “I am very honored and proud to be this year’s grand marshal.”

As President and co-founder of the Veterans Association of North County (VANC), he established a Resource Center for veterans, current military, and their families.

Atkinson is well known in the community, receiving numerous awards while on active duty and as a veteran.

The mission of VANC is to serve as a one-stop resource center for all veterans and military, centralizing the services of diverse agencies to assist them with jobs, education, finances, health and wellness, and family issues. VANC also hosts a Memorial Day and Veterans Day event each year attracting large crowds.

VANC is a valuable addition to community and veterans sponsored resources offered by the City of Oceanside. VANC is located in Oceanside, California, is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization created by a group of dedicated veterans to empower other veterans, members of the military, and their families by providing needed support and resources.

VANC is an umbrella association that represents more than 30 veteran organizations spanning all branches of military service (including reserve personnel) and encompassing all generations, retirees.

To learn more about VANC and Chuck Atkinson visit www.VANCnorthcounty.org.

For more information about the parade, please call MainStreet Oceanside at 760-754-4512 or visit www.MainStreetOceanside.com.