Downtown Meridian at the Doughboy monument was filled with those who served in all branches of the military to those who simply came to honor on this veteran’s day.
Heading up the ceremony was former CAO Ken Storms as well as many others who contributed to the celebration.
The guest speaker for the program was Chief Master Sergeant Angela Baughman with the Mississippi Air National Guard. she said today is a day of tribute and reflection.
“Veteran’s day is a triumph for all of those who served and kept us free and continue to do so today.”
Baughman said that the holiday has evolved over generations.
“The first veteran’s day was observed in a solemn fashion by reflective performances by military bands, cities and military posts across America. while this holiday was originally a remembrance of the silencing of that war’s cannons; the end of the war to end all wars did not silence them for long. we have fought many since. over the past 97 years the scope of our observance has changed.”
Baughman added that Veteran’s Day in many ways has become more grand.
“Veteran’s Day has become less quiet and more grand. part reflection, part celebration. that is appropriate. in an address in 2011 former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates said that from the revolutionary war and through Iraq and Afghanistan, a tiny sliver of America has achieved extraordinary things under the most trying circumstances.”
Following the speech, the program concluded with a 21 gun salute and taps along with a laying of wreaths.
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