Grand Marshal Named For 2025 Howard County Veterans Day Parade

COLUMBIA, MD — The 2025 grand marshal has been named for the Howard County Veterans Day Parade.

Elza K. Redman, Jr. will lead the annual parade planned for Nov. 9 in downtown Columbia. Organizers select the grand marshal based on who represent the values and morals of the Howard County community of veterans and military families. This year, organizers wanted to honor “veterans forming future leaders” who show a passion for education, mentorship and coaching.

Elza K. Redman, Jr. served in the U.S. Air Force from December 1957 to May 1962 and was discharged at the rank of airman first class. After completing basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, he attended the Airborne Navigation Equipment Repairman Technical School at Keesler Air Force Base before serving with installations across the U.S. and abroad.

“Elza Redman, my grandfather, is not only a decorated veteran with a record of excellence in service to the nation, but also a tireless mentor who has dedicated decades to forming the next generation of leaders. His selection as grand marshal both honors his military accomplishments and highlights his profound and enduring impact on the youth and families of Howard County,” said Joni Nichols, Redman’s granddaughter, who nominated him for grand marshal.

Throughout his service, Redman worked on some of the most advanced aircraft of the era, from the T-29 trainer to the pioneering F-105D, the first fighter with an integrated electronic system. He was part of initial ground testing crews for new technologies, repaired critical communications equipment and rewrote procedures and technical manuals to improve operational readiness.

In recognition of his professionalism, ingenuity and dedication, Redman was awarded Air Force Airman of the Year in 1959, received the Air Force Good Conduct Medal and a unit citation while serving with the 59th Fighter Intercept Squadron at Goose Bay Air Base, Canada, and earned letters of commendation.

Following his discharge, Redman continued in public service, contributing 60 years of support to the Department of Defense. In 1980, he rejoined the Civil Air Patrol, United States Air Force Auxiliary, Howard Composite Squadron, the same program where he began as a cadet before enlisting. For more than four decades, including 14 years as Howard Composite Squadron Commander, he guided more than 1,500 cadets through programs emphasizing leadership, aerospace education, character and service.

“I’m patriotic. I’ve served in the military, not only as active duty but also as a civilian, for 65 years. That’s a long time. For me, it was a job that I was excited about. I loved every minute of it,” Redman said.

In addition to his military service, Redman served the Howard County community, including for 15 years as a volunteer child passenger seat technician with SafeKids Howard County.

The 11th annual Howard County Veterans Day Parade and Celebration will start at 9:30 a.m. with the ceremony immediately following the parade's conclusion.