COMMANDER GENE NETHAWAY of the Elsie American Legion Post 502 was on hand as shown here giving out commemorative pins to some of the Vietnam veterans at the 16th Annual Veterans Day Parade held in Perry on Friday, Nov. 11. Nethaway is working in conjunction with Congressman John Moolenaar to make sure every Vietnam veteran is given a pin and certificate for their service. The pin giveaway was just a portion of the celebration of veterans in Perry on a rather chilly night in November. (Independent Photo/Elizabeth Wehman)
by Elizabeth Wehman, editor
Despite colder temperatures, hundreds of individuals came out to help honor county veterans during the 16th Annual Veterans Parade held in Perry this year on Friday, Nov. 11. Marching in the parade were four Shiawassee County bands including Owosso High School Trojans, Corunna High School Cavaliers, Perry High School Ramblers, and the Durand High School Marching Railroaders.
Former Republican of the Michigan House of Representatives Larry Julian had many praises for the veterans in attendance when he spoke, “To all our veteran freinds, thank you. Thanks to all the heroes and God bless our veterans.” Also speaking at the event was Perry Mayor James A. Huguelet who honored all in attendance by hosting the special ceremony as well as Shiawassee County Veteran Affairs Director William (Bill) Archer. Archer told about many opportunities offered in the county to veterans and also thanked them for their service.
Elsie American Legion Post 502 Commander Gene Nethaway gave away commemorative pins to each qualifying Vietnam veteran in attendance. He gave away the pins as part of the effort put forth by the federal government to honor all the veterans who served in Vietnam. Each pin was given by Nethaway as he told each man, “A grateful nation thanks and honors you.”
Speaking at the event were former Republican of the Michigan House of Representatives Larry Julian, Shiawassee County Veteran Affairs Director William (Bill) Archer, Perry Mayor James A. Huguelet, and Elsie American Legion Post 502 Commander Gene Nethaway. The Perry High School marching band also performed some patriotic songs.
Also present for the event were Owosso Mayor Ben Frederick, newly elected Shiawassee County Commissioners Jeremy Root/Brandon Marks/Mark Coscarelli, newly elected Shiawassee County Clerk Caroline Wilson, Morrice Council members Phyllis Dickerson and Kathy Mulholland, Perry City Council members, and Owosso Mayor Pro-Tem Chris Eveleth. More photos are inside today’s edition.
