Lifelong Menardian Mr. Carl Kothmann, 89, takes in the sights and sounds of what is likely his 85th Veterans Day Parade in Menard. With the Goodfellow AFB colorguard marching by, Kothmann’s family estimated he may have missed just one or two annual parades in his lifetime, while serving in Germany as a Corporal in the U.S. Army as Military Police.
The time-honored parade tradition is one of the most anticipated events in town. This year’s parade boasted almost 40 entries, and the streets were lined full with spectators of all ages. You can see more parade photos starting on page 7.
The auction held after the parade is the PTO’s only fundraiser of the year. Auction co-chairperson Tami Russell commented: “Nora [Davis, co-chair] and I are always taken aback by the faithful donors and buyers who show up year after year for the veterans and kids of Menard. For years I have mistakenly thought the parade and auction were my favorite tradition, but this year I realized it’s Menard’s generosity and patriotism.”