By ROBIN SHANNON

Staff Reporter

GRAMERCY – A community tradition continues this week as St. James Parish honors those men and women who have defended our country in times of war.

On Thursday, Nov. 8, it will mark the sixth anniversary of the St. James Veterans Day Celebration. The event will include music, food and fireworks on the grounds of the Parish Welcome Center on Highway 61 in Gramercy.

Temple said the event kicks off around 3:45 p.m. with a wreath laying ceremony at the foot of Veterans Memorial Bridge. The celebration then moves back to the Welcome center where the Color Guard from VFW post 5852 and American Legion Post 565 will present the flag.

There will be a reading of the names of deceased veterans of the parish, followed by the playing of Taps and a 21-gun salute.

The celebration will conclude around 6:30 p.m. with a stunning fireworks display.

Temple said parking will be limited, but patrons should take advantage of shuttle service located at the Golden Grove Truckstop. For more information about the event, contact the St. James Economic Development Office at 225-869-1717.