Honoring a Hero: WWII Veteran Leads Memorial Day Parade as Grand Marshal

“It’s my home.”

A local celebrity of sorts, Richard “Dick” Miller has lived in Aurora all his life — all 98 years of it. Except, that is, during a brief but significant period starting in 1944, when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy at age 17. He survived the sinking of the USS Drexler off the coast of Okinawa in 1945 — which claimed the lives of 168 onboard — and returned to Aurora keen to begin a life only half-started before his entry into the service.

As a World War II veteran and long-time Aurora resident, Dick Miller’s recognition as the Grand Marshal for the City of Aurora’s 2024 Memorial Day Parade is both fitting and honorary.

The request for Grand Marshal nominees called for an Auroran who “has made significant contributions to the quality of life in the city,” a descriptor which befits the man whose love for Aurora and willingness to reflect on his time in the service has indebted him to the Aurora community.

For Miller, his connection to the armed forces and military history is as integral to his identity as his very name. With a strong presence in local events related to military appreciation, Miller’s commitment to sharing his story and experience in the armed forces remains an important primary source for local military and history enthusiasts.

Even with burn injuries to his legs as a result of his escape off the USS Drexler, Miller remains incredibly mobile — and punctual. Scheduling time with him must work around his calendar of veteran coalition pop-ups and speaking engagements, which he organizes in his own daily calendar.

Whether they’ve served in World War II, Korea, or present-day zones of aggression, Miller describes the network of veterans he comes in contact with as "a clan.” There’s an almost tangible weight one can feel, which adds measure to Miller’s cadence, as he speaks of the sacrifice given by servicepeople —those he’s known and those he has not. The fellowship there is felt — even if not seen — by all.

Miller’s ability to weave a narrative still laden with detail decades old is just one extraordinary aspect of speaking with him in person. He has borne witness to the growth and evolution of Aurora over time, with anecdotes to spare of the evolving use of the famed local Roundhouse, fellow Aurora veterans — including former Mayor Albert McCoy, with whom he completed basic training — and of his time at the United States Post Office in downtown Aurora.

After returning home, Miller made good on his intention to marry his hometown love — they first met in grade school — once "his Sweetheart” graduated from Copley Hospital cadet nurse training and he enrolled in Aurora College (now Aurora University).

For Miller, continuing to speak about his role in “the war to end all wars” and the impact of befriending and losing other servicemen in the line of duty keeps these celebrations in perspective.

As a federal day of observance, Memorial Day has solemn roots, as its purpose is to remember those who have fallen in the line of duty throughout the United States’ military history. In contrast to Veterans Day, Memorial Day asks us to give space and remembrance to those who can no longer tell their story.

But the contributions of veterans like Richard Miller, who serves as a living testament to the strength and bravery of military personnel, continues to create opportunities for appreciation, education, and yes, celebration.

This year’s Memorial Day Parade steps off at 10 A.M., at the corner of Benton and River Street. Join the City of Aurora in recognizing and remembering those who have served and fallen — and celebrating those still with us.