The 14th Annual Western Arkansas Veterans Day Ceremony and Parade will take place this Saturday, November 7th at the Chaffee Crossing Historic District in Fort Smith. The theme is “Happy Birthday, America! Honoring America’s 250th birthday.”
The parade is free and open to the public, and will feature floats, classic cars, motorcycles, tractors, marching units, local businesses, and regional veterans organizations.
The parade will feature Grand Marshal Sylvia Pitzen Timmons, a retired Air Force Veteran. Sylvia is 91 and resides in Van Buren. She was born and raised in Camp Springs Maryland, near Washington D.C. She spent nearly 10 years in the Air Force.
“We are so excited to have Sylvia serve as the official Grand Marshal of the Veterans Day Parade,” said Chaffee Crossing Historic District Director Jennifer-Seaton Rambo. “Her military service is a wonderful example of the progression of America. She took risks, took chances, and had the courage to step forward – qualities that are admirable in every generation. We are incredibly thankful for all of our veterans, and this year, we are especially honored to recognize Sylvia and the legacy she represents.”
In Amarillo Texas, she met Vernon Timmons, who she married in 1965. The two moved to Alma in 1967, with Vernon being stationed in at the Fort Smith Air National Guard 188th unit. Vernon was a Vietnam veteran. They had three children: Roberta Parks, Basil Timmons, and Steven Timmons. Steven also served for 36 years at the Fort Smith Air National Guard, and did tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. He recently retired as a Senior Master Sergeant. Steven’s oldest son, Andrew, is currently serving in the Air Force.
There will be an Honors Ceremony at 10 am, with the parade following at 12 p.m. The parade route will is pictured below.
