Since 2012, Tommy and Cathy Mullins have been giving back to the Owensboro Community through song and service in gratitude for the support shown to their family after their son Brandon was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2011. In the years that have followed, with the help of several community members and organizations, these concerts have transformed into a weekend of celebration and remembrance for the men and women who have served their country.
Kentucky Remembers 5K, Walk and Fun Run
At 8 a.m. Nov. 9, the 6th annual Kentucky Remembers 5K, 1-mile Walk and Fun Run for Little Warriors will take place at the Shelton Memorial on the Owensboro riverfront. With a history of blustery temperatures causing a decrease in participation in the last few years, the race committee considered eliminating the competition aspect and offering more of a “fellowship feel” this year.
“Every year we’ve lost runners,” Tommy said. “The first year we raised $10,000 and were able to give money to other organizations like Warrior 180, Honor Flight and Gold Star Mothers.”
Since that meeting, several members of the community have reached out in anticipation of competing on race day. The time-chipped race, courtesy of Rise Up And Run, will continue to award medals for first, second and third place in each age division, and encourages all running clubs, JROTC members and others who wish to come out in support.
Those interested in participating may sign up online, download the printable registration form or sign up on race day at the RiverPark Center.
Veterans Day Parade
The Owensboro Daviess County Veterans Organization will be conducting the 101st Veterans Day Parade at 2 p.m. Nov. 9, beginning at the intersection of Second and Clay Streets. This year’s Grand Marshal for the parade is U.S. Army veteran and local long-distance runner, Chris Conley. Conley recently led Kentucky’s first Run for the Fallen that commenced at the Owensboro Shelton Memorial and ended at the Kentucky Veterans Cemetery West in Hopkinsville, Kentucky.
The parade will also feature a Cruise-In Style Car Show for participating car clubs from 3-5 p.m.
Military Ball
Saturday’s culminating event will take place at the Owensboro Convention Center. The second annual Kentucky Remembers Military Ball is presented by Independence Bank and co-sponsored by the Owensboro Daviess County Veterans Committee. While the ball is advertised as, “ All generations, All Branches,” and encourages military personnel attending to wear their dress uniforms, the event is open to the public and invites all attendees to “dress to impress.”
“It is not just for the military or veterans,” said Lt. Col. Patrick Rowe, U.S. Army, (Ret.). “It is for everyone who has an interest in the military, veterans or supporting veterans. A lot of people say, ‘Thank you for your service,’ but this is a practical way to show that thank you.”
With individual ticket costs at $35 per person, Cathy said attendees do not need to have served in the military, but simply share a love for those who have served.
“If you’ve never been to a military ball, this is your chance to go,” Cathy said. “There will be World War II veterans down to the JROTC. That is the beautiful thing about this — it’s all generations, all services, and all branches.”
Social hour and photos provided by Dream Copy will begin at 6 p.m. with dinner starting at 7 p.m. The evening will also include music and dancing courtesy of the Steve Greenwell Trio, as well as a silent auction and missing man table display.
Visit Kentucky Remembers to purchase tickets.
For Faith & Country Concert
The final event of the weekend, the For Faith & Country commemorative concert, will take place at 3 p.m. Nov. 10 at the International Bluegrass Hall of Fame & Museum. The theme of the afternoon, “No legs, No vision, No problem” draws its title from keynote speaker CPL Matthew Bradford, USMC (Ret.) who will be sharing his inspirational story of faith and hope in the midst of great trial.
