By By Steve Gillespie/The Meridian Star
Nov. 11, 2001
Meridian residents could see the city's largest Veterans Day parade when at least 76 units hit the streets at 3 p.m. this afternoon.
Ken Storms, a U.S. Navy veteran and an organizer of the parade, said Saturday that the parade will include floats, automobiles and bands as it winds through downtown Meridian.
But that's not all. The parade is one of several Veterans Day events scheduled today.
Events begin at 10:30 a.m. with a Veterans Day ceremony at the Doughboy Monument downtown. Following an invocation, officials will introduce former prisoners of war and mothers who've lost sons to war.
At 11 a.m., a flyover is scheduled by T-45s from Naval Air Station Meridian, signifying the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month when the armistice to end World War I was signed.
After the flyover, U.S. Rep. Chip Pickering, R-Miss., is scheduled to speak.
Then, the Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post 79, the American Legion and the Disabled American Veterans will place wreaths at the monument. A 21-gun salute and "Taps" will end the ceremony.
After that, former U.S. Rep. G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery is set to speak at an invitation-only luncheon hosted by the local VFW post. Pickering also is scheduled to attend the luncheon and participate in the parade.
Besides the afternoon parade, Meridian residents also can attend a 3 p.m. Meridian Winds musical tribute to veterans and salute to America. The program, part of Meridian Community College's Arts &Letters Series, will be at McCain Theater in Ivy Hall.
Steve Gillespie is a staff writer for The Meridian Star. Call him at 693-1551, ext. 3233, or e-mail him at sgillespie@themeridianstar.com.