Saluting the Real Heroes
The City of Franklin will remember and honor all veterans at its Veterans’ Day Parade being held in Downtown Franklin on November 11th at 11 AM. The parade is a joint effort of the City and local radio station WAKM AM-950.
The Grand Marshal for the 2008 parade is Franklin Police Officer Leigh Ann Hester. Officer Hester is the first woman since WWII to be awarded the Silver Star Medal for Valor. While serving as a Sergeant with the 617th Military Police Company, Hester fought her way through an enemy ambush and saved the lives of her fellow soldiers.
Adding an international touch to the festivities will be a delegation of 40 members of an accordion band coming all the way from County Laois, Ireland. Laois is the “Sister County” to Williamson County. The St. Joseph’s Accordion Band Portlaoise will march in honor of the Irish men and women who have fought on behalf of America in conflicts around the globe. County Laios Mayor, Tom Jacob, will accompany the band on this international journey and march alongside local veterans and elected officials.
Everyone is invited to join the celebration. The parade route travels down Main Street, from Five Points to the Factory. JROTC units and/or marching bands from five of Williamson County’s high schools will participate. The Franklin Special School District and Battleground Academy will also send a large contingent of students to show their appreciation.
The Parade begins promptly at 11:00 AM at Five Points. For more information, call 791-3217.
