Jefferson County Veterans and United States of America’s Miss 2026, Karrington True, Named Grand Marshals of the 2026 Hometown USA Parade
As the nation commemorates 250 years of America, the City of Madison is proud to announce that four distinguished Jefferson County veterans — Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Bill McCubbin, U.S. Navy, World War II veteran; First Lieutenant Thomas Ringwald, U.S. Army, Vietnam veteran; retired Lieutenant Colonel Dale Crafton, U.S. Army/National Guard, Vietnam veteran; and Sergeant Leon Perry, U.S. Marine Corps, Vietnam veteran — along with United States of America’s Miss 2026, Karrington True, have been selected as the Grand Marshals for the 2026 Hometown USA Parade.
The Hometown USA Parade has long been a cherished Madison tradition, bringing residents and visitors together to celebrate patriotism, community spirit, and the values that define our city. As Madison joins communities across the country in celebrating America’s Birthday, this year’s Grand Marshal selections honor both the future and the legacy of our nation, recognizing a hometown ambassador and those who answered the call to serve.
Together, BM2C McCubbin, 1LT Ringwald, LTC (Ret.) Crafton, and Sgt. Perry represent generations of military service and dedication to the country.
BM2C McCubbin, the only living World War II veteran in Jefferson County and the county’s oldest living veteran, served in the United States Navy and earned the World War II Victory Ribbon, Asiatic-Pacific Area Ribbon with four stars, Philippine Liberation Ribbon with two stars, and American Area Ribbon.
1LT Ringwald served in Vietnam and was awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, Combat Infantry Badge, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Army Commendation Medal, Parachute Badge, and three Overseas Bars. He remains actively involved in the local veteran community.
LTC (Ret.) Crafton, also a Vietnam veteran, earned numerous honors, including the Silver Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, Purple Heart, Bronze Star with Valor, Ranger Tab, Combat Infantry Badge, and Parachutist Badge. He was also inducted into the Indiana Military Veterans Hall of Fame.
Sgt. Perry served in Vietnam and earned a Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal with two stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, and the Vietnam MUCCAC (1st Class) with Palm. He currently serves as First Vice at American Legion Post 9, accepted the position of Vice Commander for the American Legion’s 9th District, attends monthly Jefferson County Veteran Council meetings, and remains active in supporting fellow veterans.
Joining them as Grand Marshal is Karrington True, a 2016 graduate of Madison Consolidated High School, former 2018 Miss Madison Regatta, and former delegate representing both Madison and Indiana at Hoosier Girls State and ALA Girls Nation.
Karrington currently serves as United States of America’s Miss 2026, becoming the first woman from Kentucky to earn the national title. Inspired by growing up as the daughter of a firefighter, she has dedicated more than 17 years to advocating for first responders and promoting safety education. Through her platform, Supporting Heroes, she has traveled thousands of miles reaching students and communities through outreach focused on preparedness, service, and community responsibility. She is also the author of two children’s books centered on the courage, teamwork, and service demonstrated by first responders.
Mayor Bob Courtney shared, “As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, it is fitting to recognize individuals whose lives reflect service, pride, and dedication to others. Bill, Thomas, Dale, and Leon represent generations of sacrifice and commitment to our nation, while Karrington has represented her community and country with grace and purpose and inspired others with her dedication. Together, they embody the values we celebrate during our Hometown USA Parade.”
True shared, “Of all the places I’ve had the opportunity to visit this year, Madison will always be one of my favorites. It’s a community I care deeply about, and being invited back as Grand Marshal is truly an honor. As United States of America’s Miss, I’ve had the distinct privilege of representing our country during the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, and I can’t think of a better place to celebrate than in a community like Madison, which embodies so much pride, tradition, and patriotism.
I’m especially grateful to be serving alongside my fellow Grand Marshals and veterans being recognized in this year’s parade. While I may wear a crown and sash, those symbols pale in comparison to the service and sacrifice these men and women have made for our country. I hope this year’s parade serves as a reminder that freedom isn’t free. It is a privilege to stand beside them as we celebrate our nation and the people who have helped shape its story.”
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Parade Details: The 2026 Hometown USA Parade will take place on Friday, July 3, 2026, at 6 PM and travel along Main Street from Jefferson Street to Cragmont Street. As part of the celebration, BM2C McCubbin, 1LT Ringwald, LTC (Ret.) Crafton, and True will ride together as Grand Marshals on the parade float. Perry will serve in a special ceremonial role, joining the Color Guard as First Vice of the Legion during the parade procession.
The City invites residents and visitors to join in celebrating the 2026 Hometown USA Parade and honoring these individuals whose stories reflect the spirit of Madison and the enduring ideals of our nation.
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