Council approves Veterans Day parade, street closures and committee; organizer seeks military flyover

Lexington City Council unanimously approved a motion to permit street closures for a Veterans Day parade and ceremony on Nov. 11, 2025, and to recognize Bob Hopkins as chairman of a parade committee to organize the event.

Hopkins, a long-time resident and veterans’ advocate, told council the November event marks the 25th anniversary of the Veterans Memorial dedication and the 100th anniversary of a World War I cannon placed on the courthouse lawn. He said the parade will include area veterans and families, high school bands from five local schools, and invited dignitaries. Hopkins said he intends to seek a military flyover (F-16s referenced) and explained the authorization process requires FAA and Pentagon review and would be coordinated with Shaw Air Force Base if approved.

Council voted to approve the street closure and related parade arrangements and to assign Hopkins leadership of the organizing committee. The motion was carried by roll call: Betts (aye), Ziegler (aye), Smith (aye), Driscoll (aye), Strawn (aye), Alexander (aye). Councilors encouraged Hopkins to coordinate with VMI and local schools; Hopkins said he would contact school principals, VMI staff and regional military contacts to plan participation.

Hopkins asked the city’s blessing to proceed with formal flyover requests and said he planned to submit paperwork to the city manager and then to federal authorities. Councilors praised his past work on the memorial and expressed support for the proposed parade and ceremony.

No funding appropriation was made during the meeting; Hopkins said event sponsors and existing memorial funds will be used for planning and perpetual care related to the memorial.