By Beth Alston

AMERICUS — The American Legion Post 558, Americus, Veterans Day Parade Committee is in the final phase of organizing its fourth annual Veterans Day Parade and activities. This event is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 10.
A ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. prior to the parade in front of the Sumter County Courthouse. The guest speaker will be retired Master Sgt. Randy Goodman, American Legion Paul E. Kelly Post 296 Inc. of Marietta. He has served the Post as commander, junior vice commander, adjutant, historian, finance officer, service officer, and executive board member.
Goodman was chosen as the 1999 Post Legionnaire of the Year. He is an American Legion Extension graduate and a 2005 National American Legion College graduate. While serving as District Commander, the Fifth District was selected as an “Outstanding District.” He earned the distinction on the national level as Department Commander of the Year in 2015, and was recognized as Georgia Legionnaire of the Year in 2011. Goodman served on the National Foreign Relations Council and the National Law and Order & Homeland Security Committee. He earned his associate degree from the Community College of Air Force in 1983, a bachelor’s degree in industrial technology from Southern Illinois University in June 1990, and a master’s degree in management of technology from Southern Polytechnic State University in June 1996.
Goodman served in the United States Air Force from July 23, 1976 until May 31, 1994, retiring at the rank of master sergeant. He is the father of two adult children, Nicholas and Natasha.
A luncheon will follow the parade at the American Legion Post No. 558. This luncheon is by invitation only. Guest speaker is Junior Vice Commander, Willie Yarborough.
Organizers are requesting that those who wish to be in the parade email or call with your intent to participate. Information will follow as soon as reservations are received. Contact Frank Mitchell by email at birdflowerfruit@yahoo.com, by phone at 229-938-4310, or by mail – P.O. Box 6775, Americus GA 31709.
Frank Mitchell is parade chairman/organizer and Thomas Moore is Post 558 Commander.