SILOAM SPRINGS — The third annual Siloam Springs Veterans’ Day parade has been slated for Nov. 7.

Like the past two years, the parade is organized by representatives of Siloam Springs’ American Legion Post No. 29.

“A few years ago, I realized that they hadn’t really been doing a parade so I started it back up,” said Ron Evans, the current post commander. “People have been enthused about it.

Our parade last year was much bigger than anyone expected.”

With the support of the local Veterans of Foreign Wars chapter and Springdale’s Disabled American Veterans, the American Legion post has marshaled an event that is expected to be even larger than last year’s.

“Veterans Day isn’t until the Wednesday after the parade but we thought that we’d have a better turnout if we had it on Saturday,” Evans said. “We hope to see a lot of people out there honoring our veterans.”

At 10 a.m. Nov. 7, floats, trucks, old-fashioned tractors, veterans, family and friends will begin to assemble at Southside Elementary School.

“We can use some help from volunteers who would be willing to work in the staging area, getting things organized,” Evans said. “The parade will be arranged in categories, with the bikers toward the front.”

The parade will start at 11 a.m.

The entourage will march down Tulsa Street, continue north on Mount Olive Street, turn on Jefferson Street and willconclude when the group reaches Twin Springs Park.

Transportation in the form of wagons and trailers are available to veterans unable to march.

“In the past, most of those that are involved in the parade have dads who are veterans or they are themselves,” Evans added. “This is for everyone. It’s a good way for people to come support our vets.”

Thirty-five motorcyclists, a combination of veterans and supporters, showed up to join in the memorial parade last year.

Highlights from last year’s parade expected to reappear this year include an antique tractor, an antique fire truck from Gentry, the Siloam Springs High School marching band, military vehicles, fire and police vehicles and collectible cars.

A second event, to be held in the Siloam Springs American Legion Community Hall Nov. 11 at 11 a.m., will be held to pay homage to veterans and those currently serving in the military.

“We’re doing things a little different this year,” Evans said. “Instead of having one main speaker, we’ll have two or three veterans talk about their life in the military.”

In addition to joining in the day of thanks, attendees are invited to sing songs, chat with veterans and browse tables of military memorabilia on display.

For more information, to join the parade or to find out how to help, call Evans at 524-4544.

News, Pages 1 on 11/04/2009

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