HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Hopkinsville held its annual Veteran’s Day Parade Saturday, Nov. 8, to honor the military who are currently serving or have served in the past. Escorted by state and local police along with the fire department, the parade traveled from the War Memorial building to the Justice Center, to the delight of the flag-waving crowds.
The Veterans of Foreign Wars color guard led the parade, including the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, and two marching bands. Local veterans were also involved, riding on floats, motorcycles or marching. Although Fort Campbell soldiers could not participate this year, due to the government shut down, they were honored during the speeches from the podium.
At the Justice Center after the parade, the crowd stood for the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of the national anthem by Lindsey Stoke and Gracie Davis. The Veteran’s Day Proclamation was presented to Commander John Brame of VFW #1913 by Judge Executive Jerry Gilliam and Mayor James R. Knight, Jr., after it was read aloud.
The school that won the award for the most participation in the Veterans Parade was Indian Hills Elementary School. The Most Spirited School award went to University Heights Academy. Along with the ceremony, a display of military uniforms and equipment from World War I was shown in the parking lot and the VFW Ladies Auxiliary provided drinks and snacks to the crowd.
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