Make plans for a fun event, history lesson and patriotic tribute on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2010, when the annual Salute to Veterans Parade comes to uptown Charlotte from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Carolinas Freedom Foundation is the primary community organizer of the event, and several businesses and organizations offer support and sponsorship. Mecklenburg County’s Community Support Services department is again a co-organizer of the annual parade. The route begins at North Tryon and Ninth streets and ends at McDowell and Third streets.
Another event is planned for Thursday, Nov. 11, which is Veterans Day. A wreath-laying ceremony is scheduled for 11:45 a.m. uptown at Trade and Tryon streets. The public is encouraged to come out and support the commemoration.
Jim Prosser, who is a veteran and a CSS employee, said the 2010 parade will offer on-lookers a colorful, fun, interesting and rewarding experience. The parade is a tribute to the military women and men who have served, and are still serving, the nation.
“Everyone should come out and enjoy the parade,” Prosser said. “It’s an opportunity to show our support, honor veterans and to come together as a community.”
Past years participants included:
· High school bands
· High school Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps
· Floats
· Antique and classic cars
· Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops
· Veterans groups and organizations
· Civic and community organizations This year, a Viking boat float is going to be a part of the parade, Prosser said. Also, a participant for 16 years plans to don a World War I Doughboy uniform again and join the parade for a 17th year, Prosser said. Visit the Carolinas Freedom Foundation website at http://www.carolinasfreedomfoundation.org for more information about the parade. To learn more about the services and programs offered by Mecklenburg County to veterans and their families, visit www.MecklenburgCountyNC.gov and click on departments, then Community Support Services, then Veterans Services Office.
· High school bands
· High school Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps
· Floats
· Antique and classic cars
· Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops
· Veterans groups and organizations
· Civic and community organizations This year, a Viking boat float is going to be a part of the parade, Prosser said. Also, a participant for 16 years plans to don a World War I Doughboy uniform again and join the parade for a 17th year, Prosser said. Visit the Carolinas Freedom Foundation website at http://www.carolinasfreedomfoundation.org for more information about the parade. To learn more about the services and programs offered by Mecklenburg County to veterans and their families, visit www.MecklenburgCountyNC.gov and click on departments, then Community Support Services, then Veterans Services Office.
