Local businessman, veteran serves as Grand Marshal

John Carlton

John Carlton served as the Grand Marshal for the Piggott Fourth of July Parade. Carlton, 60, was chosen for his history as an active member of the community, as well as his service as a soldier in Vietnam, with this year's event honoring both American independence and the men and women of the military.

"I feel very honored," Carlton said of being named Grand Marshal. "I'm thankful for the opportunity and proud to have been chosen for this."

Carlton served in the infantry in Vietnam from 1967 to 1969. During that time, he received the Silver Star, the second-highest award given by the Army. He also received two Bronze Stars and a Purple Heart.

Carlton and his wife, Vicky, moved to Piggott from Oklahoma 19 years ago. They have two children. Their son, Nick, is a 2007 graduate of Piggott High School. Daughter, Lacey, is in the sixth grade at Piggott Elementary.

The Carltons began working in the floral industry in 1979. In 1981, they branched out to include telemarketing as part of their business scheme. Prior to moving to Piggott, Carlton worked at Teleflora in Paragould for three years. He brought his experience and knowledge to Piggott in 1989, working at Aerial Bouquet.

In 1992, the couple started their own floral business, Master Marketing. The company, which has 12 employees, offers a wide range of wholesale floral industry items. Their products have expanded to include a number of gourmet foods, as well as keepsakes, such as angels.

"We wanted to go out on our own," Carlton said. "We had the experience and we thought it was something we could do."

Carlton also has been a member of the Chamber of Commerce, including serving as president during one of the group's most vital times. He was a key figure in having the depot moved back to its location, where it serves today as the Chamber office and tourist center.

Throughout his time in Piggott as both a business owner and a member of the community, Carlton says the efforts of the residents here are what make this area shine.

"I believe you've got to really give credit to the people of Piggott," Carlton said. "We have some truly hard-working people here who are more than willing to do whatever they can for the benefit of their town. You don't see many small towns like ours where the people are out there working constantly to make improvements on so many levels. We have a lot here for a town of our size. A lot of that comes from the efforts of those who live here."

Though running a business leaves little time for hobbies, Carlton enjoys spending quiet moments outdoors. He is an avid rider of horses and has even taken part in a few rodeo events over the years. In fact, Carlton says he still does some team roping every once in a while. Still, his business is one of his most passionate activities.

"Honestly, my hobby is work. I enjoy what I do."