By Leisl Lemire | Special to the Advertiser

While enjoying all of the Peach Festival activities this year, and as we approach the celebration of our nation’s independence, take a moment to thank those whose military service has provided peace and protection for us all.

A light military vehicle display will be part of the annual Peach Parade, which begins at 9 a.m. Saturday in downtown Clanton.

Attendees can enjoy the sight of these armored vehicles completely decked out in decoration—a reminder of the cost of freedom and of the strength of our military.

After the parade, the vehicles will be on display at Goose Pond Park, where residents are invited to talk with the owners, take photos and share stories.

The age of the vehicles ranges from some that saw action in World War II to those in current use.

Junior Wilson, a Vietnam Veteran, is a member of the Dixie Division Military Vehicles Club and said that it is “an organization dedicated to the preservation, restoration, collection and display of historic military vehicles of all nations and of all eras of our history. We are also dedicated to the education of our members and the public as to the historical use and service of our vehicles by the various armed forces of the world.”

The Military Vehicles Club began during a vehicle rally at Tannehill State Park on Nov. 6, 1999, and has members from all over North America and even Europe.

“New members are welcome who share our interests, even if you don’t presently own a military vehicle,” Wilson said.