Southwest Louisiana Veterans Home resident Sam Simmons Jr. leads the Pledge of Allegiance during the home’s annual Memorial Day program in Jennings. (Doris Maricle / American Press)

Southwest Louisiana will honor military veterans Thursday with a parade at the Southwest Louisiana Veterans Home in Jennings, where local residents are being urged to thank and remember the home’s residents.

“Anyone can participate in our drive-by parade,” Veterans Home Activity Director Julie Benoit said.

Line-up for the parade will begin at 9:15 a.m. at the veterans cemetery driveway. The parade will begin at 9:30 a.m. circling the Veterans Home.

“We used to do an inside ceremony for our veterans on Veterans Day, but three years ago we started doing the parade around the home,” Benoit said. “Our veterans like getting outside and it means a lot to them when they get thanked for their services. Most people don’t realize how just a little thank you makes them feel good and know they are not forgotten.”

Vehicles do not have to be decorated, but Benoit encourages everyone to wave flags, display signs saluting the veterans or play music.

No throws of any kind will be allowed.

Grand marshal for the parade will be U.S. Navy veteran Lawerence Joseph “L.J.” Menard, 95, of Lake Arthur. Menard has been a resident at the home since 2013.

The salute continues for the veterans following the parade as the Iowa Knights of Columbus will host a meal and music for the home’s residents.

Other veterans celebrations throughout the month include the Made U Look car show, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 12.

Cost is $30 per vehicle entry.

Hamburgers, drinks and chips will be sold with all proceeds benefitting activities at the Veterans Home.

The Southwest Louisiana Veterans Home and Cemetery Ancillary Committee will also host the inaugural Warriors Jambalaya Cook-off, 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 19 at the Louisiana Oil and Gas Park in Jennings to help raise money for activities.

The cost to enter is $75 per team. Entries will be accepted at the gate the day of the event.

On Saturday, Dec. 10, the home will host the 4th annual Holiday With a Veterans Car Show from 9 a.m.-2 p.m..

Cost is $30 per vehicle entry.