Pearl River County residents are urged to participate in the annual Veterans Day parade, set for Tuesday at 6 p.m.
Event organizer Bill Beacht said the event was set for Tuesday because it was the day closest to the national holiday he could get the veterans, antique military vehicle owners and the local NJROTC organizations together.
Each year, the parade provides locals with a way to show their appreciation to the men and women who served this country through military service.
Beacht said he expects more than a dozen antique military vehicles to be featured in the parade, all occupied by veterans of previous wars. Children are urged to bring bags to catch the many throws, including toy soldiers and candy.
Beacht is looking for more participants because the number of veterans in the county is dwindling.
“The number of World War II vets has dwindled from about 30 to about 10,” Beacht said.
All residents are asked to line the route of the parade before hand to show their appreciation. The route will begin on Goodyear Boulevard near First Baptist Church of Picayune, head towards U.S. 11 and then toward West Canal Street before heading back to Goodyear Boulevard.
“We want all veterans to ride in the antique trucks and all the people to line the streets and honor our veterans,” Beacht said.
He said it’s important to honor these men and women.
Any veteran or Rosie the Riveter interested in participating in the parade can call Beacht at 601-916-1280.