ROCKINGHAM – Every year Americans come together united to observe Veterans Day. This official holiday, which is observed every year on November 11, is held in honor of all who serve and have served in the branches of the United States Military.
Robin Roberts, general manager of Hudson Brothers, is always active with working with the VFW and the veterans in Richmond County. And she has had a vision of having a parade in Rockingham in honor of the Veterans, which is something that hasn’t been done in over a decade until last year.
This has been her vision for a while now, and last year she finally got the support needed to make what she has visualized for so long come to life.
Last year Roberts had 28 entries for the parade, but this year she has more than doubled the amount of entries. As of Monday, the parade had 62 entries.
“There has been an overwhelming amount of community support,” stated Roberts. “And I could not be more excited.”
The parade will be Saturday, November 11, with the opening ceremony being held in front of the court house at 3 p.m.
Before the parade, the VFW will be hosting a traditional ceremony for the veterans at 11 a.m.
Arts Richmond will follow with live music by Roger Campbell and Chris Herring from 1 to 3 p.m., as well as a new exhibit from 12 to 5 p.m. celebrating the Veterans. Both veterans and their spouses will have their art displayed for the public during this time.
Local businesses such as Kona Ice and Twisted Treats, as well as the Richmond County Humane Society will be present during these events downtown. People will have the opportunity to meet new canine companions and adopt.
The day will not end here. Later in the night, from 8 to 11 p.m., The Unsung will be performing at the VFW to wrap up a day for our American heroes.
Roberts emphasized that this day is about honoring the Veterans.
“We wanted to make it an all-day event,” Roberts said. “It’s my hope to make this an annual event with more and more growth each year.”
