This past Saturday was unseasonably cold, but it did not prevent a large crowd from gathering on the Courthouse lawn to honor Winston County’s veterans. Veterans Day is traditionally commemorated on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month, coinciding with the signing of the treaty that ended World War I. However, as November 11 fell on a Sunday this year the ceremony was held on November 10.
The day began with a breakfast, sponsored by the Pilot Club, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce. It gave the veterans an opportunity to come in from the cold, enjoy a nice meal and a hot cup of coffee and reminisce with friends and fellow service men.
The oldest veteran present was W.L. Black who served in World War II, and one of what is commonly referred to as ‘The Greatest Generation,’ for their sacrifice in defeating the forces of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan.
Following the breakfast the veterans formed up and paraded from the Chamber of Commerce building, north on Church Ave., then east on Main St. to the Courthouse where a large crowd of friends, family, supporters and patriotic Winston Countians awaited.
The program began with a short welcome from Mayor Will Hill, and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Winston County Veterans Service Officer, Larry Veazey. Vietnam veteran, Bro. Mike Dowd led the gathering in prayer, followed by the National Anthem performed by the Louisville High School Band.
Veazey took a moment to recognize all veterans, but especially those of the Vietnam era, and presented a number of these men with a special 50th Anniversary Vietnam commemorative book.
One of the highlights of the morning was a medley of patriotic songs by the Fair Elementary Melody Makers, under the direction of Mark Goldbeck.
William “Doc” Fryery recounted a few of his experiences in Vietnam, followed by the playing of Taps to close the ceremony, a reminder to all gathered of the great price and sacrifice made to secure and preserve our many and manifest freedoms, and of the great debt of gratitude owed to our veterans.
