An exciting salute to Fairhope Veterans

November 11, 2015

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Alabama's oldest Boy Scout Troop, 47-led off the Fairhope Veteran's Day Parade in grand style. The parade was held this past Saturday and today will be the grand display of our, "Symbols of Sacrifice: Poppies for Veterans."   A friend took this wonderful photo of the 3,400 handmade poppies after they were "planted" yesterday morning, surrounding our Veteran's Memorial fountain.   The installment, overlooking Mobile Bay, will be on view all day today, (11/11/15) with a closing ceremony beginning at 4:45 and ending with the sunset. If you have purchased a poppy (1 for $20 or 3 for $50) you can pick it up at the close of the ceremony, or if it gets too dark, they'll be available Thursday morning. Proceeds from sales will benefit local Veteran's causes. I hope to have more photos of the final ceremony later. * But back to the parade . . . The first female Veteran of the Year was Kenya Thomas, who was a member of the US Army Reserve. Click HERE to read about her great service to our country. Congratulations, Kenya!   Jack Burrell, and Mike Ford (off camera) represented the City Council and marched in front of the popular Dogwood Trail Maids. Daphne High School's ROTC looked great as always.   And my favorite marching band sounded perfect as they played patriotic tunes.   Former Veteran of the Year, Clarence Bishop of B&B Pecans is always a crowd favorite.   Another form Veteran of the Year, Mawk Arnold was looking sharp.   And this little car was a huge crowd favorite, followed by . . .     this little airplane! I'd love to have this to drive downtown!     The City of Fairhope does an outstanding job supporting those who served by protecting our country and keeping us a free and prosperous country.   Wherever you are, I hope you have a beautiful Veteran's Day and celebrate our freedom with gratitude and thanks to all who so bravely served the United States of America.