LEESVILLE, La.-Due to the weather, the timeline has changed for Patriot Pride Day set for tomorrow, Thursday, April 3 at Fort Polk.

The Uncasing Ceremony will take place at 1 p.m. at Mountain Field, with the parade of troops following immediately at 1:30 p.m. The block party begins at 2 p.m., with the cake cutting ceremony at 2:30 p.m.

The Greater Vernon Parish Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee invites the general public to join them in celebrating the return of the Patriots of the 4^th Brigade, 10^th Mountain Division from their recent nine-month deployment to Afghanistan.

Both the Uncasing Ceremony and the parade are open to the general public. Everyone is encouraged to attend.

"We want to show these soldiers and their families how much we truly appreciate the sacrifices they've made in the past and continue to make for our community and our country," said Chamber president Kirk Pellerin. "School groups, civic groups, businesses and individuals are encouraged to line Alabama Street on Fort Polk and cheer for the soldiers as they march past. In 2011 our soldiers came to Leesville for a great welcome home parade. Let's show them that same great welcome by bringing Leesville and Vernon Parish to the soldiers."

Access to Fort Polk will be available at any installation gate to anyone over the age of 18 presenting a valid state issued drivers license or state issued ID card at the Access Control Point from 2-6 pm the day of the event. Anyone under the age of 17 not possessing an ID, but accompanied by an adult (with license or ID) may also enter the installation in the same manner.

The Chamber is also asking for donations to help toward funding the food and entertainment to be provided to the soldiers and their families during the Welcome Home Celebration at 5 p.m. The Chamber expects to provide food and entertainment to more than 6,000 soldiers and their family members.

To donate toward the cost of the food and entertainment, please contact the Greater Vernon Parish Chamber of Commerce. A limited number of television advertising spots leading up to the event are also available for businesses wishing to participate. Call the Chamber for more details.

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