From staff reports LAWTON — The City of Lawton canceled the Army's 250th birthday parade, a decision that has caused disappointment throughout the community. Mayor Stan Booker on Friday announced the cancellation, saying it was a tough choice made to keep The Saturday parade was to celebrate a milestone for the Army and has been a special event in Lawton, which has close ties to Fort Sill. The parade allows the community to show its support for soldiers and their families.
In a statement, Booker explained that city leaders got information about possible violence from outside groups and decided it was too risky to hold the parade.
'We simply cannot invite families and children to an event where violence is very likely to occur,' he said. 'No celebration is worth putting our community, especially our children, at risk.'
Many in Lawton were upset about the cancellation. Booker said he understands their feelings and shares them. However, he stressed that keeping people safe is the most important job for city leaders.
Even though the parade is canceled, the city still plans to honor the military. Lawton will have Juneteenth celebrations next week to celebrate freedom. There also will be a two-day Freedom Festival. These events will give the community other ways to celebrate and show support for Fort Sill and the soldiers.
Booker said that Lawton's support for the military is strong and won't be measured by just one event. He added that the community will continue to celebrate together, but safely.