Monday, December 9, 2024
SPRINGTOWN — On Nov. 9, Springtown held its second Veteran’s Day parade to honor those who have served all branches of the military in the United States. Last year was the first year the city decided to host a parade.
This year, the parade featured groups of prominent figures in the community like the Parker County Young Marines, Sunset Church who featured veterans on their trailer and some local Army veterans.
Springtown Assistant City Manager Christina Derr says that the staff of the city takes pride in honoring veterans and bringing the community together.
"Our nation's veterans are one of our most valued treasures,” Derr said. “Without them and their sacrifice we would not have many of things that are most important to us as Americans, Texans and Springtownians. The staff takes great pride in being able to honor them and providing an opportunity for the community to do the same. This year's turnout was the largest we have seen yet and it was wonderful to see so many come together to honor our local veterans. We look forward to next year's event and hope it will only continue to grow."
After the parade concluded, citizens gathered under the tabernacle in the square. Springtown citizens and veterans heard from Mayor Greg Hood and First Baptist Church associate pastor John Miller.
Pastor Miller gave a speech as to the history of Veteran’s Day and the significance.
“The United States Congress officially recognized the end of World War I when it passed the concurrent resolution on June 4, 1926,” Miller said. “The resolution states, whereas the 11 of November 1918 marked the cessation of the most destructive, sanguinary and far-reaching war in human history and the resumption of the people of the United States of peaceful relations with other nations, which we hope may never again be severed. Later that year, President Eisenhower issued the first Veterans Day proclamation. Veterans Day National cemetery is held each year on November 11 at Arlington National Cemetery.”
Miller explained how Memorial Day is to honor those who died in the service, but Veteran’s Day honors all veterans.
“Veterans Day is a day for the rest of us,” Miller said. “Those who lived through the wars, those who served, those who gave their time, that we all might have life and liberty. That our children and grandchildren might know what we knew when we were their age. That we can be free and the grand old flag still flies, representing freedom and liberty around the world. And because it does, untold millions want to come here to live each and every day.”
Miller went on to thank the veterans in the audience and to those not present.
“Thank you to those who have joined us in this ceremony today,” Miller said. “And to the men and women who have served and are serving, and those who will serve in the future, we remain grateful for your sacrifice and may God bless you.”
