Christiansburg High School sponsored and did the legwork to put together a parade in downtown Christiansburg Monday morning to honor local and area veterans.
The parade featured four marching bands: the Christiansburg Blue Demon Marching Band, the Auburn Eagles Marching Band, the East Montgomery Marching Mustangs, and the Blacksburg High School Marching Band.
The Christiansburg Corps of Cadets stepped out smartly in the parade, which featured at least one unusual entry in Chandler Concrete Company cement truck. It was decked out in red, white and blue bunting and American flags and declared, “Thank you, veterans; honoring all who served.”
The Patriot Guard Riders, motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the New River Valley, were on hand to add some noise and some excitement to the parade. A lineup of classic vintage cars also took part.
Following the 10:30 a.m. parade, the veterans who walked were taken by bus to Christiansburg High School. There they were treated to a barbecue lunch prepared by the wizards of the school’s culinary arts program. Members of the Student Government Association and some staff members doled out the food and drinks and then waited on the veterans at their tables. The school’s chamber ensemble provided musical entertainment, and a number of door prizes were awarded. At each table were letters hand-written by students expressing their thanks to the veterans.
The overall theme of the day was clearly one of gratitude and appreciation for what the military veterans, both men and women, had selflessly given of themselves to serve their country.