This past Monday morning, the Choctaw County High School Auditorium was the scene of a ceremony to honor Choctaw County veterans. Veterans Day is usually observed on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, which coincides with the signing of the armistice to end World War I, in 1918. As Veterans Day fell on a Sunday this year, the ceremony was held on November 12.
VFW Post 5569 Judge-Advocate, Tony Ballard, opened the ceremony with a welcome message, acknowledging all of the veterans present and recognizing their service to the nation. Ballard also pointed out that without the help and cooperation of Choctaw County HS the ceremony could not have taken place.
The program consisted of a number of patriotic musical videos including: The Star Spangled Banner, The Armed Forces Medley featuring the official songs of the five branches of the armed forces: the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard.
The program also featured Stars and Stripes Forever, Amazing Grace and the Naval Hymn, Eternal Father Strong to Save. The veterans stood and saluted for the playing of Taps.
VFW Post 5569 Chaplain Paul Holly offered opening and closing prayers, and CCHS Band member, Dustin Clark closed the program with the ringing of the bell 11 times.
Ackerman Police Chief Tim Cook was the guest speaker who spoke about the history of Veterans Day. Cook has 18 years of law enforcement experience and is a retired Army veteran with a total of 21 years in Army National Guard and Army Reserves.
Cook served in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003-2004 and was awarded the Silver Star for his service there. The Silver Star Medal is awarded for singular acts of valor or heroism over a brief period, such as one or two days of a battle.
Gathered along with the veterans and their families were students and faculty of Choctaw County High School who came together to honor our veterans on this very special occasion.
