Saturday morning's brisk, pleasant fall weather provided plenty of encouragement to scores of residents who lined downtown Texarkana streets to take in the annual Veterans Day Parade.
This year's parade theme was "Saluting The Women In The Military Through The Years," and participant Becky Hernandez said the event shows that the U.S. military is open to anyone willing to serve.
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A 2-day art show and sale held at the Arkansas Community Arts Coop featured music, food, and of course, art.
"I had a sister who served, and this shows that the military now accepts many who want to serve, and that's real cool," Hernandez said. "I've been to about four of these parades. This also gives kids the chance to learn about the military environment."
Kenneth Maddox, who served in the Marine Corps, said his mother served in the Army as a clerk, while his sister Kristi Maddox served for six years in the Navy in South Korea and Hawaii.
"I like the community involvement that something like this brings out," Kenneth Maddox said.
Kristi Maddox, who also participated in the parade, said she witnessed protests against American military service personnel in Korea, but added that most South Koreans were always glad to see Americans there.
Patrick McReynolds, a member of the local American Legion Post 58, said it's about time American women were recognized for their contribution to military service and to preserving freedom at home and around the world.
"I think it's about time, because we now have seen the many contributions by women in a variety of capacities in our armed services," he said.
Parade participant Allie Graves, a Texas High School sophomore who recently was named North Texas Outstanding Teen, said the recognition of servicewomen is a testament to what the Veterans Day Parade has to offer in terms of respect for all those serving in the military.
"I think it's awesome that we have parades that show a respect for any and all who have served and continue to serve in our country's defense," she said.
Former Wake Village City Councilwoman Ernestine King said she came out to the parade in honor all of her family members who have served and continue to serve in the Army.
"My dad was in World War II, and I have three brothers that served, as well as a grandson, a nephew and two nieces," King said. "To this day, I still have my grandson and one of my nieces serving and stationed in Germany."