CULLMAN, Ala. – Veterans, families, friends and community members gathered on Wednesday, Nov. 5, at the Cullman OmniPlex for a luncheon honoring those who served in the armed forces.
The event offered food, fellowship and reflection, with the posting of colors by the Cullman Fire Rescue Honor Guard and musical performances by West Elementary School fifth graders, led by Army National Guard Field Artillery Sgt. Keenan Hollingsworth.
Guest speaker Ben Harrison, director of the Cullman Regional Airport, shared stories of his family’s long military history, including relatives who fought in World War II and the Vietnam War. Though he never served himself, Harrison said the examples of courage and sacrifice shown by veterans have shaped his life and values.
“Because of your courage, we are proud, united and free,” he told the audience.
Harrison reflected on being overseas on Sept. 11, 2001, and how the experience deepened his appreciation for the generations of men and women who answered the call to serve. He also reminded the crowd of the human cost of freedom, citing more than 400,000 Americans lost in World War II and tens of thousands more in later conflicts.
“Whether you enlisted, were drafted or went through an academy, you stood up for the United States of America,” he said. “The least we can do is thank you.”
