Springfield Honors Joseph Hendricks as Veteran of Year

The city's 40th annual award recognizes Hendricks for his service and contributions ahead of the Veterans Day Parade.

Updated on Nov. 10, 2026 in Civic

Tall American flags hang along a tree-lined civic street leading to a brick municipal building under a clear morning sky. — Springfield honored Joseph Hendricks as its 40th annual Veteran of the Year at a Monday ceremony, while Edward Hatten was named grand marshal of the Veterans Day Parade. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Springfield honored Joseph Hendricks as its 40th annual Veteran of the Year at a ceremony held Monday. Edward Hatten was also announced as grand marshal for the city's Veterans Day Parade.

Why it matters

The award and parade recognize local veterans and their service to Springfield, and residents are encouraged to attend the public events. The 40-year run of the honor reflects a long-standing civic tradition in the city.

The ceremony marked the 40th annual Veteran of the Year award, following dozens of prior honorees. The source does not specify Hendricks' branch, service dates, or specific contributions.

The players

Joseph Hendricks

Joseph Hendricks is the honoree recognized as Springfield's 40th annual Veteran of the Year for his service and contributions to the city.

Edward Hatten

Edward Hatten is the grand marshal announced for Springfield's Veterans Day Parade.

Springfield Veterans Activities Committee

The Springfield Veterans Activities Committee is the local body that organizes veterans recognition events and encourages residents to attend the parade.

The details

At a Monday ceremony, city leaders and members of the Springfield Veterans Activities Committee recognized Joseph Hendricks for his service and contributions. Hendricks thanked the committee and the City of Springfield in his remarks.

Monday, November 9, 2026: Veteran of the Year ceremony honoring Joseph Hendricks.
Wednesday, November 11, 2026: Springfield Veterans Day Parade steps off at 11 a.m. from Springfield Technical Community College and proceeds to City Hall.

Civic Tradition

Springfield's Veteran of the Year award, now in its 40th year, is one of the city's longest-running recognition traditions for local service members. This year's honoree continues a series that has already recognized dozens of veterans.

Residents can attend the Veterans Day Parade on Wednesday, November 11, which starts at 11 a.m. at Springfield Technical Community College and ends at City Hall. The Springfield Veterans Activities Committee is encouraging the public to come out and watch.

The takeaway

Public recognition of veterans through events like Springfield's annual award and parade gives residents a direct way to honor local service members. Attending the November 11 parade is a simple way to take part.

What happens next

The Springfield Veterans Day Parade steps off Wednesday, November 11, at 11 a.m. from Springfield Technical Community College and proceeds to City Hall.