While Veterans Day is still seven weeks away, when the goal is to host something very special, it requires making plans well in advance. The Shinnston Lions Club’s objective is to make this year’s local Veterans Day celebration better than ever, and in order to do that, a great deal of forethought and preplanning is essential.
Shinnston Lions Club president David Minor noted that this will be the club’s 20th consecutive year to host the community’s Veterans Day Parade, which will be followed by a luncheon at Shinnston’s American Legion Post No. 31.
“When this first started, we honored just one local veteran, but we have so many former veterans in our area, that has expanded and we’re now in the process of choosing three or four veterans to honor this year,” he stated. “Given decent weather, this parade usually brings a very sizeable attendance, and last year, the Legion was packed with a full house to hear honored veterans’ stories. I need to add that we are so very appreciative that Post #31 allows us to use their facility, and we are grateful that the Ladies Auxiliary will continue to provide food for the luncheon which EVERYONE is welcome to attend! We are very hopeful that this year’s celebration will bring not only a huge crowd of spectators, but also greater participation in the parade itself,” Minor added.
Parades are quite powerful when it comes to showing community spirit. The Lincoln High School Marching Band as well as Lincoln’s JROTC have already committed to being in the parade. However, scouting groups, school groups, sports teams, civic organizations, fire departments, churches, and area businesses are urged to take part as well. With several new businesses in the Shinnston area, this is an opportune time to be seen, to advertise your business, and to show your gratitude to our area’s veterans. Having such advance notice gives you plenty of time to mark your calendars and make plans to participate!
Former President Harry S. Truman once stated, “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women who have served our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude, and America will never forget their sacrifices.” Let us all remember that veterans have consistently stepped forward through the years in times of crisis and were driven by a selfless desire to protect their country and their fellow citizens. That being said, honoring veterans should be done every day of the year, not just on this particular holiday. Don’t think of it as merely a day when we don’t have to go to work or to school. This is a ‘thank you’ day dedicated strictly to veterans!
Those who have never served in the military or had a family member who served may not realize what these men and women have endured … what experiences they’ve had … what they’ve witnessed … how they’ve lived. Just a suggestion to ponder – Put yourself in their shoes; would it not mean the world to you to know that those around you value what you’ve done for them???
Recall the popular song by Lee Greenwood called “God Bless the USA”; part of the lyrics was “I’m proud to be an American”! Are you one of those people? Do you stand during the playing of the Star Spangled Banner? Do you place your hand over your heart when reciting the Pledge of Allegiance? If so, remember that it was these service men and women who made it possible for you to stand up and say you are “Proud to be an American”!
The Shinnston Lions would like to see throngs of supportive spectators along the flag-lined streets of Shinnston on Wednesday, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. demonstrating their pride and indebtedness to Veterans’ contributions that have given us the countless freedoms we enjoy. Be present, or better yet, be a participant in this tribute to those who chose service over self.
If you are interested in participating in the parade, please call David Minor at 304-844-6078.