Chilly Weather, Smiles & Flags Greet Veterans & Supporters at Sedalia Parade
A total of 42 units combined to make up the 2017 Veterans Day Parade, organized by Smith-Cotton JROTC, which took place during a cold Friday afternoon in downtown Sedalia.
Despite the chilly temps, a sizeable crowd showed up for the chance to honor local heroes along Ohio Avenue.
Ron Ditzfeld supplied his tour bus to accommodate area veterans who wanted to be in the parade and ride in comfort and style.
Grand Marshall for the parade was Sedalia Mayor Stephen Galliher.
Not one, but two giant American flags were on display during the parade. One was supplied by Smith-Cotton JROTC, and the other one by Elks Lodge 125.
The Smith-Cotton Marching Tigers provided thrilling sights and sounds to the event that showed appreciation to veterans of the USA in all branches of the military. S-C thespians also participated in the Vets Parade.
Making a return appearance in Friday's parade was a snow-white 1954 Chevy Howe fire truck courtesy of Paul and Melody Tyree.
Uncle Sam (Councilman Bob Cross) made a personal appearance, decked out in his traditional red-white & blue gear with top hat.
Also in the parade were 40 & 8 marchers, the Salvation Army Canteen, a float from Green Ridge, a float from La Monte (American Legion), and a Humvee from Missouri National Guard and Army Recruiters Pettis County Suicide Prevention also had an entry in the parade as well as Stone Laser Imaging, KIX-105.7 and K-K Chevrolet.
Cub Scout Pack 54, Boy Scout Troops 54, 61 & 300, Girl Scout Troop 71052, and appearances from City Council members, County Commissioner David Dick, State Rep Nathan Beard, local first responders, Shriners Fun Kor, DAR members, local HOGS members, Trails End riders, and Whiteman Air Force personnel, to name a few, helped round out the salute to the military on Friday, which was held one day prior to the official Veterans Day holiday.