JJ and Carleigh Everett, raised in a family with deep roots in patriotism, will step into a historic role this year as the first-ever Junior Marshals of the Freedom Fest parade honoring their father, Justin Everett Sr., who died in service.
“My father, my grandfather, my great‑grandfather… we had a lot of family members that served, basically,” the siblings reflect, underscoring a lineage committed to the nation. With multiple generations wearing the uniform, JJ and Carleigh are humbled and proud to carry on that legacy.
When asked about their mixed emotions, Carleigh shares, “I’m very surprised and happy at the same time. It’s like a mix of emotions. I’m happy that I do get to represent him, but it’s kind of sad because he died.” Their father, an Army serviceman, tragically lost his life in a motorcycle accident while en route to his base…