WASHINGTON, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — As Veterans Days gets closer, one Valley community decided to start the celebration a little early.

The Daviess County Historical Society hosted a program and parade in downtown Washington on Sunday. The Program included multiple speakers from local Daviess County highschoolers along with select local veterans.

Bruce Smith is a volunteer at the Daviess County Historical Society Museum, and he says that it was an honor to host this event.

“To recognize and honor the men and women who have served our country in the military over the many, many years. It is certainly an honor and a privilege for the museum, the volunteers, and the board of directors to be able to honor these gentlemen and women who have served our country so faithfully over the years,” said Smith.

The parade included multiple groups that showed their love and appreciation for local veterans. There was also box float contest that those in attendance could vote on.

Roger Callahan was the keynote speaker for the program and expresses that he loves when these events are in the public eye.

“I think it is great to keep this in front of people and for people to gather and recognize veterans. I enjoy the fellowship and the community getting together to do these events,” said Callahan.

People of all ages should always remember why we have the rights and freedoms that we have.

“It is important that the rest of us, who are not in the military or who have served in the military, recognize these people who are willing to serve their country and this very important task for all of us,” added Smith.

Officials said that they could not have been happier with the attendance for both events and can’t wait to see everyone again next year.