ASHLAND — A military humvee, two vintage cars, and other vehicles packed with waving veterans and first responders cruised past crowds of students chanting “U.S.A!” at Crestview Local Schools’ Veteran’s Day parade and breakfast Thursday.
The parade started near the elementary school before it weaved its way through the parking lots of each school, where students waved American flags and held handmade signs thanking the procession for their service.
The event’s main organizer, Library Media Specialist Aide Ronica Cordrey, said students of all levels contributed signs, colored art, and notes to the event.
“I really love that the students wanted to give back to the veterans and show their support of what they have served,” she said.
The parade was helmed by the Ashland Veterans Honor Guard, a local group of veterans from multiple generations who march with flags and rifles in local ceremonies and parades.
Honor Guard Commander Dave Harry, whose grandkids graduated from Crestview, said this is the honor guard’s third year with the Crestview parade.
“I’m thankful that they still asked and we still come out,” he said.
Afterwards, the veterans were treated to a free pancake, eggs, and sausage breakfast courtesy of Crestview’s FFA club, who helped organize the event.
The FFA students prepared food, waited tables, handled donations, created a parade float, and more, FFA president Evan Stuart said.
“Giving them a little breakfast is nothing compared to all that they’ve had to go through for us. And we could never show them enough appreciation for what they’ve done,” he said.
