Anna, TX — The Hurricane Creek Rotary Club hosted its annual Veterans Day Parade on Saturday, November 7, bringing local organizations, veterans and community members together in Downtown Anna to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

The parade began around 11 a.m. at the intersection of 7th Street and Sherley Road, traveling through Downtown Anna before concluding near the Anna Community Library at 5th Street and Riggins Street.

The Anna Progress also participated in this year’s parade, joining fellow community organizations in recognizing the service and sacrifice of American veterans and their families.

The event was organized by the Hurricane Creek Rotary Club, with Kari Heatherly of Heatherly Allstate, who serves as the club’s vice president, playing a leading role in planning and coordinating the festivities.

The annual event brought the community together ahead of the official Veterans Day holiday on Wednesday, November 11, providing an opportunity for residents to express their appreciation for those who have served their country.

Veterans Day Ceremony Followed Parade

Following the parade, the Hurricane Creek Rotary Club hosted a Veterans Day ceremony outside the Anna Community Library, featuring remarks from Anna Mayor Pete Cain, a performance by the Anna High School marching band and Coyettes Dance Team and recognition of the parade’s Grand Marshal.

This year’s Grand Marshal was Jim Provins, a 96-year-old Korean War veteran who served in the United States Army as a sergeant first class and is a member of the Anna American Legion.

The ceremony, which lasted approximately 15 minutes, included the Presentation of Colors and a performance of the National Anthem by local musician Sadie Lee.

During his remarks, Cain reflected on his own military service, which included six years in the Marine Corps and four deployments. He spoke about the importance of servant leadership and the lessons he learned from the men and women he served alongside.

“Some men and women who taught me what it was to be a servant leader, who taught me that it’s important that the leaders eat last,” Cain said.

He then concluded his remarks with a quotation attributed to former President John F. Kennedy:

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”

Community Comes Together to Honor Veterans

Following Cain’s remarks, Hurricane Creek Rotary Club Vice President Kari Heatherly expressed her gratitude to the veterans and military families in attendance, recognizing the sacrifices made by those who serve and the loved ones who support them.

Heatherly also thanked the City of Anna, city staff, police and fire personnel, Scouts, performers, volunteers and parade participants for their contributions to the event.

She offered special recognition to fellow Rotary Club members for their work in helping organize the parade and ceremony, along with the club’s members whose planning and dedication helped bring the event together.

The ceremony concluded with a final tribute to veterans and their families, emphasizing the importance of remembering their service and recognizing their contributions to the community.

Saturday’s parade and ceremony provided an opportunity for Anna residents to come together in appreciation of those who have worn the uniform, while highlighting the efforts of local organizations and volunteers who continue to make the annual tradition possible.

The Anna Progress was proud to participate alongside the Hurricane Creek Rotary Club and other community organizations in honoring those who have served.