2023 Veterans Day Parade

The autumn temperatures were crisp, but LCCTC’s SkillsUSA medalists and graduate medalists were toasty in their handmade tassel hats and scarves (Thank you Sandy Jones!) As the crowds arrived to honor the veterans, excitement filled the air. As handshakes and robust hugs were exchanged, high school bands warmed up with their patriotic numbers they had practiced for the day.

At the start was the first woman to ever serve as Grand Marshal of the county’s Veterans Day Parade, Army veteran, LCCTC graduate, and Hall of Fame recipient, Ruth Fairchild. Not far behind her followed our “red coats”, as our Director likes to call them, their necks heavy with medals of shiny gold they had earned over the past few years from District 10 and PA State Championships and heavy bronze medals earned just this summer at the National Championships in Atlanta; the “clink, clink” of well-earned metal against metal let you know they were headed your way even before their bright smiles could be seen.

Today, instead of distributing flags along the parade route this year, our SkillsUSA chapter helped delight parade-goers as they pulled a 15 ft Uncle Sam balloon, and from the smiles on the faces of the children — young and old alike — the change was well worth it. Though the kids missed greeting the veterans along the route to thank them for their service, they made sure to greet the veterans waiting to join the parade.

Our team greeted a few of our teachers, Mr. Miller and Ms. Ledsome (“Ms. OSHA”), both veterans, and snapped a quick picture. They also took a moment to steal a moment for a quick photo with Sammie McKnight (Laurel Band) one of the newest members of the SkillsUSA Opening and Closing Team and with Emily, (Neshannock Band and Mrs. McVicker-Shaffer’s niece). They visited with K-Dogs Kidz Mission and posed for a few photos on their bikes. They waved to friends and family along the route; they waved at strangers and — keeping a tight grip on the float so it wouldn’t run away — delivered the sign of “gratitude” to veteran parade-goers along the way

The pace was quick, but it kept the kids warm, and at the end of the day, it was a good day of service that helped our LCCTC SkillsUSA members reflect on how important it is to appreciate those who have served our country in the armed forces.

Happy Veterans Day. We thank you!