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May 7, 2010


Students from area schools honored the military at the Armed Forces Parade.
Photo by Wes Schultz

2010 AF Day Parade
called best in decades

By Pete Chaney
Photos by Wes Schultz and Pete Chaney

It was by many considered to be the best Armed Forces Day Parade in recent decades.

From a bulging line of participating entries passing the reviewing stand on Market Street to a record capacity number of tables for the noon luncheon, it was without question a success.

Perfect weather bathed the nearly 60 entries, some with several units, and the enthusiastic large crowd attending.  The US Navy was the branch of service honored this year.

Master Chief Petty Officer Rick D. West, a native of Rising Fawn, was the grand marshal and keynote speaker for the luncheon following the parade.  His car was first in the parade.

CAVC Chairman Jim Coppinger’s vehicle was second, followed by Military Project Officer Read Adm. Robert D. Crates and CAVC Chairman Noah Long.

JROTC units from area schools took part, under the management of Lt. Col. Tom McConnell.  School bands took part.

The entries ranged from the Fire Department to Jim Ashlock, a Korean War veteran driving a jeep.

The US Navy band, scheduled to appear, canceled because of the problems at their base in the Gulf.  Color guard was presented by Marine Corp/Navy.

Record for number of tables taking part was set with 60 at the Trade and Convention Center.  Carl Levi managed table promotion and sales, and has said this will be his last year.

Keynote speaker West recalled leaving his home in Georgia on graduation of Northwest Georgia High School in Trenton to join the navy in 1981.  His talk was sprinkled with humor, memories and stressing the importance of the military and all branches of service.

 

Master Chief Rick E. West was parade grand marshal.
Photo by Wes Schultz