Retired NASA Astronaut Suni Williams Serves as NYC Veterans Day Parade Grand Marshal

Retired NASA astronaut and U.S. Navy Captain Sunita “Suni” Williams served as Grand Marshal of New York City’s Veterans Day Parade on November 11, 2026.

Key details

• The parade marked its 107th annual event.
• Williams retired from NASA’s astronaut program in December 2025 after spending 608 days in space.
• NASA selected Williams for its astronaut program in 1998.
• She began her Navy career as an ensign in 1987 and reached the rank of captain in 2017.
• Her Navy service included work as a naval aviator and diving officer, as well as helicopter combat support during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Provide Comfort.

Williams spent 608 days in space during her astronaut career.

Why it matters

Williams brought experience from both naval aviation and human spaceflight to the parade’s Grand Marshal role. Her career included service in two military operations and 608 days in space.