One of the largest crowds of people in quite a few years jammed Sixth Street in Mamou to attend the Veteran’s Day parade and then gathered at the American Legion Post Home grounds for the flag raising and public speaking event.

    The weather was perfect for a parade with clear skies and mild temperatures. The crowds of people viewed one of the largest and longest parades in years with Parade Marshal Retired General Ben Soileau greeting the throng. There were veterans riding in classic cars, jeeps, ATV’s and other vehicles. Two bands performed during the parade: Mamou High and Basile High.

    At the public speaking event, there was a fly over by a crop dusting plane and a helicopter. American Legion Post 123 Commander Charles Perdices was the emcee. General Soileau was the keynote speaker. Also speaking were District Judges Gary Ortego and Chuck West. A representative for Congressman Mike Johnson read a letter to the crowd in attendance. Mamou elementary students were awarded medals for their essays and shoe box patriotic displays. The Mamou elementary students enrolled in French Immersion said the Pledge of Allegiance in French and English. Fr. Richard Vidrine, a veteran himself, gave the invocation. The Mamou High band performed a number of patriotic songs during the program. Former commander James Fontenot was given a plaque of appreciation for his service to the legion post.

   At the conclusion of the program, auctioneer Kevin Fontenot auctioned off several home- made cakes and pies as a fund raiser for the post home.