The old saying goes that, “everyone loves a good parade.” But, apparently, not as many people are as enamored with putting one together.

Although we are still nearly three months away from the Ironton-Lawrence County Memorial Day Parade rolling through the streets of the city, a handful of volunteers have been hard at work for months.

The historic parade, recognized as the nation’s longest continuously running Memorial Day parade, doesn’t happen by magic and it certainly doesn’t happen overnight. The parade committee is made up of just a handful of dedicated civic volunteers who understand the importance of tradition and 143 years of its recognition.

We applaud the parade committee for all their hard work behind the scenes, labor that typically begins shortly after the prior event is over

They understand how important the parade is for our community and for our heritage.

Each year the theme is chosen to honor our men and women who have selflessly chosen to stand up for the principles on which our nation was built. This year it will be “Saluting our Defenders of Freedom.”

Countless Lawrence Countians have fond memories and moments of their lives that are tied to the parade that honors all those who serve our nation bravely and those who continue to do so.

None of this would be possible without the volunteers who donate their time and energy to make history each year.