It is hard to believe but this Saturday the 6th Annual Veteran's Parade will be held in Quincy with nearly 80 entries ready to go down Maine Street beginning at 10am. I remember meeting with the parade chairmen Jim Ponsot and Dick McKinney five years ago to discuss putting on the first parade.  We had no idea how many entries we would have but to see it nearing 80 this year is fabulous.

For Jim Ponsot this will be the last year he will co-chair the event as he will retire from that position after this year's event.  He has done a wonderful job along with Dick McKinney on organizing this great event to show support for our veterans.

This year's Grand Marshall is Korean War Army Veteran Gib Allen of Quincy who was awarded three Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star as well. He will be among the 80 entries that will feature four marching bands from Liberty Junior High School, Quincy Senior High School, Quincy Notre Dame High School and Quincy University.

This year's parade will reassemble at the Illinois Veteran's Home at 1pm Saturday, as they have in past years, to allow the Veterans there to see the parade as well. The parade in past years has featured a military flyover but due to the Government cutbacks a flyover will unfortunately not be taking place during this year's parade.

So get your family and friends together and line up Maine Street from 12th to 5th Streets and honor these brave veterans who have made it possible for our freedoms we have today. And remember to wave those flags!

 

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