Stamford honored their veterans and Gold Star families Sunday with a parade downtown ahead of of Veterans Day on Thursday. 

Organizers told News 12 they're doing everything to make sure their veterans know they're appreciated and supported in the community.

The parade began at Latham Park.  

Organizers say their goal was to bring the community together while honoring veterans who put their lives on the line while serving the United States. 

Mayor David Martin declared Stamford a Purple Heart City at the ceremony. 

The parade finished with a ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park.

Organizers say about 30 families of Purple Heart recipients were in attendance.