The Swamp Cabbage Festival is proud to announce Myra Johnson as the 2025 Grand Marshal, recognizing her lifelong dedication to service, her deep-rooted commitment to LaBelle, and her unwavering advocacy for veterans.
A proud Navy veteran, Myra has made it her mission to ensure that those who served our country are honored and supported. As the Commander of the American Legion, she works tirelessly to assist local veterans, providing them with resources, recognition, and a strong sense of community. One of her most cherished projects is the annual Christmas Wreath program, which honors fallen heroes by placing wreaths on veterans' graves in local cemeteries. Her dedication doesn’t stop there—she is a constant presence at veteran funerals, participating in gun salutes to pay tribute to those who served.
Beyond her military advocacy, Myra has been instrumental in shaping the Swamp Cabbage Festival’s cherished traditions. For over 15 years, she has played a pivotal role as a director of the Swamp Cabbage Queen Pageant, mentoring young women and instilling in them a deep appreciation for their community and its heritage. She has also represented LaBelle on the national stage in the Ms. Veterans America Pageant, bringing attention to the strength and resilience of female veterans.
Through her work with Hendry County Veterans Affairs, Myra serves as a beacon of support for U.S. veterans, active-duty service members, and their families, ensuring they receive the benefits, outreach, and care they need. Her impact extends far beyond advocacy—she is a source of comfort, guidance, and unwavering support for those who have served.
Yet, amid all her roles as a leader, advocate, and mentor, Myra’s most treasured role is that of a mother. She has raised her children with the same strength and compassion that define her character. Among them are Novie Jo and Corbin, who have faced the challenges of Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a rare genetic condition that makes their skin as delicate as butterfly wings. Myra’s daughter, Novie, has become an advocate for others with EB, following in her mother’s footsteps as a champion for those in need.
As the 2025 Grand Marshal, Myra Johnson embodies the values of resilience, service, and community. When she leads this year’s Swamp Cabbage Festival Parade, she will not only be celebrated for her remarkable achievements but also for the lasting impact she has made on LaBelle and beyond.
Join us in honoring Myra Johnson—an extraordinary leader, a dedicated veteran, and a true hometown hero.