It was a beautiful fall day for the Hopkinsville Veterans Honor Parade, as the community lined the streets to cheer and salute our local veterans as they marched.
Sidewalk saluters from the local schools waved flags and hollered for the veterans, whether they were walking or riding a float, and the JROTC programs also took part in the day in the spirit of friendly competition. Following the parade in a brief ceremony in front of the Christian County Justice Center, Christian County Judge-Executive Jerry Gilliam says he has had the honoring of knowing many veterans, and they all have a patriotism and heroism to them that is admirable.
Hopkinsville City Councilman Don Marsh helped Gilliam read a joint proclamation, calling on the citizens of Christian County to take the time to honor, and thank, the veterans who have dedicated their lives to service of their country.
Military Affairs Committee Chair Holly Hampton thanked the large crowd for attending and thanked the veterans in attendance for all they have done and will continue to do.
The school with the Most Attendance in the Sidewalk Saluter competition was University Heights Academy, while Sinking Fork Elementary School took home the Most Spirited Award and the Fort Campbell High School JROTC won the City of Hopkinsville JROTC challenge this year.
The parade wasn’t the only Veterans Day celebrations happening Saturday, at the Veterans of Foreign War Post 1913 also hosted an event at their location off of Skyline Drive, where attendees were able to hear readings from participants in the Voice of Democracy essay contest.
