GADSDEN COUNTY, FL (WTXL) \u2014 A new tradition is taking shape in Havana as local veterans work to make sure the service and sacrifices of military members are remembered for generations to come.<\/p>\n
WATCH FULL REPORT BELOW:<\/p>\n
Havana prepares for first-ever Veterans Day parade<\/p>\n
Elwynn Sherman, a member of the Havana Veterans Foundation, says the effort is about recognizing more than military service. <\/p>\n
It is also about honoring the commitment to put others first.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re taking pride not only in our veterans but service above self and sometimes that comes with a sacrifice,\u201d Sherman said.<\/p>\n
One of the organizers Larry Clayton served 33 years in the Florida National Guard and is helping build that legacy through the newly formed Havana Veterans Foundation. Sherman is also a veteran, who served 11 years in the Marine Corps and is a Gulf War veteran, is also part of the effort.<\/p>\n
For Sherman, the connection between veterans goes beyond their backgrounds or years of service.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a brotherhood and it doesn’t matter the gender the race the age or anything of that nature it\u2019s a brotherhood. We share a common trait. And that means more than words can say,\u201d Sherman said.<\/p>\n
The effort has also received support from the town and local businesses. Organizers say that backing has helped them move forward with plans for Havana\u2019s first-ever Veterans Day parade.<\/p>\n
Larry Clayton, founder of the Havana Veterans Foundation, said the community has played an important role in making the event possible.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe have the total support of the town of Havana. The police department here has been absolutely fantastic in helping us. The Merchants Association they held a silent auction to help us fund the parade so we have the support of the entire community,\u201d Clayton said.<\/p>\n
Organizers hope the parade will give younger generations an opportunity to learn about the people behind the uniforms and better understand the commitment that comes with serving the country. <\/p>\n
They also want veterans and their families to feel recognized and appreciated by the community they call home.<\/p>\n
The first-ever Havana Veterans Day parade<\/a> is scheduled for November 7 at 11 a.m., beginning at Havana Community Park. Organizers hope the event will become an annual tradition honoring veterans and their service for years to come.<\/p>\n This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.<\/p>\n Want to see more local news? Visit the WTXL ABC 27 Website. <\/a><\/p>\n Stay in touch with us anywhere, anytime.<\/p>\n Like us on Facebook<\/a><\/p>\n Follow us on Instagram <\/a>and X.<\/a><\/p>\n