Veterans Day Parade

Sunday was Veterans Day, one day set aside to honor our men and women who have and are still serving our country in the armed forces, 365 days a year.

The city of Sebring honored our veterans with a parade. For those of us who chose to attend, it was a rewarding and moving experience to see the joy, yes, joy, in the faces of those men and women sitting proudly in festively decorated cars and trucks, being escorted down the parade route by the Avon Park ROTC Color Guard. They asked no thanks, but received applause for their job well done.

World War II, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam War, Desert Storm and the Iraq War were all represented. The Circle was full of well wishers, waving and calling out to the honorees. What wasn't there were the high school bands, the Drum and Bugle Corps, the Scouts or representatives from the armory in Avon Park, and the vast number of citizens who enjoy the freedoms our veterans have secured for us with their blood and lives.

Maybe you were home watching a football game or preparing for the NASCAR race. I hope God heard your prayers for our service men and women who have served your country. That Circle should have been filled and North Ridgewood Drive and South Commerce Avenue should have been lined with thankful men, women and children.

Maybe next year you won't forget our veterans and you will attend the parade and services in their honor.

My husband has had the honor to drive our servicemen in every Veterans Day Parade since we moved here in 2004.

Barbara Black

Sebring