Cumberland County honoring its Korean War veterans as grand marshals of Saturday’s Veterans Parade.
Acting Chairman Jeff Jipson said the event gives residents an opportunity to publicly recognize generations of local veterans and show them their service remains appreciated.
“They are always amazed and surprised at how many people come out and appreciate them for what they did,” Jipson said. “And they are very appreciative of it. The more people we can get on those streets thanking them really touches them.”
Jipson said organizers have identified roughly eight to 10 Korean War veterans in Cumberland County and continue looking for others. He said he hopes those participating understand that their military service remains meaningful to the community decades later.
“Just knowing that they are thanked for what they’ve done and that their sacrifices over the years meant something,” Jipson said.
Jipson said he first became involved with the parade as a ham radio operator handling communications in 2021 before later joining the organizing committee. He said participation has continued to increase as more groups and residents join the community-wide recognition.
Jipson said conversations with veterans following the parade reinforce the importance of having residents line the route.
Jipson said this year’s parade will also recognize those currently serving in the military. The 129th Army Band of the Tennessee Army National Guard will perform in the parade.
Jipson said the Cumberland County High School JROTC Fighting Jets Battalion will carry a large American flag provided by WoodmenLife. He said the parade provides families with an opportunity to teach younger generations about the purpose behind honoring military service.
“To understand and acknowledge the sacrifice that our veterans provided and the reason for what they do and to honor our veterans and to honor our nation,” Jipson said.
The Cumberland County Veterans Parade takes place Saturday at 10am. Jipson said the parade begins at Cumberland County High School, travels down Stanley Street to Main Street and ends at Crossville First United Methodist Church. He said veterans organizations, military groups, antique cars and four bands are among those expected to participate.
Jipson said organizers continue seeking Korean War veterans to take part as grand marshals. Information for Korean War veterans and the complete parade route are available at parade4veterans.org.