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.
