Thomasville’s National Guard Armory serves as a pit stop during the annual Memorial Day parade, a place where local and state dignitaries share a meal with family and friends of veterans who partake in the event. It’s also a place where organizers of the parade pay special tribute to honorary guests, like High Point Police Officer Ken Leonard.

On Dec. 30, 2005, Leonard worked for a private security firm in Iraq, training local police in unison with American military personnel, when the vehicle he was riding in got struck by an IED bomb. The explosion shredded Leonard’s feet, resulting in a double-amputee. Leonard wouldn’t let the accident keep him down, though, as he eventually returned to his job at High Point Police Department.

When Leonard’s name was announced at the armory during lunch, the crowd rose as one with a standing ovation that nearly left the officer in tears.

“It was overwhelming,” Leonard said. “I nearly broke down. I’m just honored to be a part of this special day. These people truly are role models for all of us.”

Congressman Howard Coble (R-NC) received one of the biggest surprises of the afternoon when Thomasville Mayor Joe Bennett presented him with the key to the city. Coble participates in the parade every year as part of his busy Memorial Day schedule, and feels the event is a great way to show the price that is paid by soldiers who give the ultimate sacrifice.

“I didn’t expect that,” said Coble of getting the key to the city. “No one told me anything about it and I’m honored to receive it. This is a great day for Thomasville and all of North Carolina. Freedom really isn’t free and this Memorial Day parade is a great way to honor our military and all their sacrifices. I heard 40,000 people were here today, and that to me says a lot about how much we appreciate our troops. I hope this parade continues for years to come.”

Rain stayed away for the initial phase of the parade, but showers started moving in around noon. The precipitation didn’t affect the parade’s route through Thomasville, as most of the participants had already reached Cushwa Stadium by the time heavier rain moved in.

“Thomasville does such a great job honoring its military brethren every year with this parade,” Hugh Holliman, House majority Leader, said. “It looked like all of Thomasville was out here today. This really is a special day, honoring all these men and women who protect our freedoms here at home.”

Staff Writer Eliot Duke can be reached at 888-3578, or duke@tvilletimes.com.