While it was a small group, it was a special time to honor and celebrate veterans in Montgomery County.

Calbrina Woods, organizer of the Veterans Appreciation Parade, is part of the Family Readiness Group of the local National Guard Unit. Woods said the event was a way to honor veterans by remembering their service.

“It is a way for us to give recognition to our local veterans and for us to remember their hard work and sacrifice,” Woods said. “It is important for them to know that their hard work has not gone unnoticed, and it is important for us to notice and remember that our freedom comes as a result of the sacrifice of others.”

The event began with a luncheon at the National Guard Armory sponsored by the organization, Blessings for All, Empowered by Faith. After lunch, a parade was held in downtown Winona, ending at the old Depot building where there was a special recognition celebration.

Louis Merritt and his wife, Mary, were two of the veterans on hand at the parade and luncheon.

“Today was about honoring veterans, in uniform and out, past and present,” Merritt said. “It was an honor to join these people to represent the U.S. armed forces.”

Merritt was a member the United States Army, serving in Operation Desert Storm, Operation Desert Shield and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Danny Joe Lott was also on hand for the parade. He said it was a good program and he was proud for his whole family to attend. Lott served in the special forces as a Green Beret for 17 years.

The Family Readiness Group of the National Guard works to help families of deployed soldiers and works with veterans with a variety of things they may need, including information about upcoming events. The group will be hosting a special Christmas luncheon to honor veterans.

See this story and some of these photos in the October 6, 2016 edition of The Winona Times.