It was a beautiful day in Paris. In fact, it was the last warm day of the fall so far before the first round of cold, rainy weather arrived. Due to scheduling obstacles, the Paris Veterans Day parade and tribute program was held on Thursday, November 10; one day early of the national Veterans Day holiday on November 11. And as it turned out, it was perfect timing for a well-deserved celebration and tribute to those who have given so much for the protection of our freedoms in our dear country.
The day’s festivities were co-sponsored by the Paris Area Chamber of Commerce and the Paris School District. Mrs. Tonya Fletcher and the always active Chamber led this special day that included a parade across the school district and surrounding neighborhoods, and a special tribute program for the veterans that was held on the campus of Paris Middle School.
Paris school students lined the streets to wave American flags and to cheer the veterans who were escorted in vintage cars. A group of veterans rode motorcycles adorned with U.S. flags and with flags representing the various branches of the military, as well. It was a beautiful day for a parade, and it was a fitting tribute to our finest men and women who have given so much for all of us.
The tribute program was held in the auditorium of Paris Middle School and was held immediately following the parade. The veterans attended the program in the auditorium that was decorated with flags from the branches of the military, as well as artifacts from various wars that included uniforms, a World War 1 helmet, and a parachute, among other items.
To this observer, the one aspect of our veterans that always makes the biggest impression on me, happened again on this day. As each of the honored veterans spoke to the near-capacity crowd in the auditorium, the humbleness of each came through loud and clear. Our veterans will tell you that they were just doing their duty, and they do not consider themselves heroes. Such humility is inspiring in today’s attention-seeking world.
But we all know; they are truly heroes, each and every one. We owe them so much, and on this day in November, we pause to reflect on how much we owe them as citizens.
On behalf of everyone at RNN Sports, thank you all for your service to our nation and for the protection we enjoy due to your sacrifice and commitment.
