What a great idea!

Now in the planning stages is a parade to honor area veteransand other military personnel for their service to the UnitedStates.

The parade is scheduled for Saturday, May 24, two days beforethe Memorial Day holiday. Organizers have already determined aroute for the 10 a.m. event. It will start at the old railroaddepot, travel along Monticello Street to Jackson Street and thendown to Chickasaw Street. The parade will stop at the governmentcomplex for a ceremony, then take First Street to Monticello Streetand back to the depot.

A reception honoring the veterans will follow the parade.

Among those working on the parade are Chad Smith and Eric K.Boyd, two military vehicle collectors from Brookhaven. Also takingpart in the planning are veterans, military service representativesand others just interested in helping.

Citing the importance of remembering the sacrifices veteranshave made for America, the planners are hoping for a goodrepresentation of military personnel.

We’re hoping for the same thing, and we encourage veterans totake part in this parade. We appreciate their service to ournation, and we appreciate those who are making this effort to honorthem.

Our veterans don’t hear “thank you” often enough.