Veterans at the Veterans Day parade, including Mr. Willie Harris

Red, white, and blue flags flew in the breeze as West Memphis School District participated in the West Memphis Veterans Day Parade. 

Members of the JROTC at the Academies of West Memphis carried the flags and the Blue Devil marching band played patriotic tunes. Students from Maddux Elementary also rode in floats and marched in the parade. 

All of this pomp and circumstance is not enough, though, as the men and women who are serving or have served our country deserve more than just a day or a parade.

One of those is our own Assistant Superintendent, Mr. Willie Harris. 

Harris served in the 101st Airborne Division of the US Army. He was a soldier in the infantry and calvary during the Vietnam War. During his service, he lead groups of men in the bush. Harris keenly remembered his time in the jungles of Vietnam saying, "I had a heightened sense of awareness. If one tiny hair fell off my head, I could sense it." 

He describes his time in the army as a, "blessing in disguise" and credits the "good Lord" for "looking out for me". 

We humbly thank you, Mr. Harris, and all service men and women. Thank you for putting your lives on the line so we can live freely. 

Be sure to check out more from the Veterans Day parade, including some insight from JROTC members who are inspired by veterans. Click on the video for more.