CULLMAN, Ala. – The community is invited to join in honoring local veterans during a special Veterans Day Ceremony and Luncheon on Wednesday, Nov. 5, at the Cullman County OmniPlex.
The event is hosted by the Active Adult Center, Cullman City Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism and the Cullman County Commission on Aging.
Lunch will be served at noon for seniors who RSVP in advance, followed by a program at 1 p.m. presented by West Elementary School fifth graders. The ceremony will include music, tributes and a salute to local service members.
Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism Executive Director Nathan Anderson said the partnership came naturally.
“The Commission on Aging and the Active Adult Center collaborate on multiple other events, like Senior Day at both Oktoberfest and the Strawberry Festival,” he said. “We always enjoy partnering with Stephanie and her team any time there’s an opportunity. When this collaboration idea came up, it was an easy decision to want to work with them again—especially now that we have the space at the Omniplex to grow it.”
All seniors ages 55 and up are encouraged to attend. Anderson said this year’s move to the OmniPlex allows the ceremony and luncheon to expand.
“Moving to the Omniplex gives this event room to expand,” he said. “It’s a special day for all of us, and we’re proud to celebrate even more veterans from across the county this year.”
The program will include participation from West Elementary School fifth graders, who have become a highlight of the annual event.
“We started working with Sergeant Hollingsworth several years ago,” Anderson said. “She does an incredible job teaching her fifth graders about patriotism, respect and appreciation for those who’ve served. I’ve been to their program at West Elementary several times and knew it would be a great fit for this event. It’s become one of the highlights of the ceremony—right behind seeing all the veterans stand to be recognized.”
The luncheon, Anderson said, is a way for the city and county to thank those who have served.
“This luncheon is our way of saying thank you,” he said. “It gives veterans and their families a chance to be recognized and appreciated by the community they helped protect. We’ve made every effort to keep the event comfortable and accessible, with reserved seating and staff available to assist any guest who needs extra help.”
Each year, the ceremony includes meaningful tributes to veterans, POWs and Gold Star Mothers.
“Each veteran is celebrated and invited to stand in a line before the crowd,” Anderson said. “It’s always a powerful sight to see how many have served. They’re personally thanked by our city and county leaders, along with our sponsors, and receive a small token of appreciation for their service. We’ll also include moments of reflection for POWs and Gold Star Mothers and a patriotic performance by the students that always moves the room.”
Anderson said CPRST’s involvement reflects the department’s core mission of community service.
“Honoring veterans fits directly into our mission of serving the community,” he said. “Our department focuses on bringing people together and creating meaningful experiences. The Active Adult Center partnering with the Commission on Aging allows us to expand and celebrate with more of those who’ve served and ensure their contributions are never forgotten.”
He credited the event’s sponsors and community partners for making it possible.
“We’re blessed to have great sponsors who help make this event possible,” Anderson said. “It’s completely free as a way to say thank you to our veterans and their families. This year’s sponsors include the Cullman County Sheriff’s Department, Premier Bank, AmFirst, Kenneth Cornelius for County Revenue Commission, Drinkard Development and Cullman Florist. Anyone who’d like to get involved or support future events can contact Stephanie Neal at the Active Adult Center.”
Anderson shared a simple message for Cullman’s veterans.
“Our message is simple—thank you,” he said. “Your service and sacrifice matter. We’re grateful for the support of our sponsors, Stephanie Neal and Stephanie Lawson and their teams, Sergeant Hollingsworth and the West Elementary fifth grade class, Mr. Kallhoff and Dr. Page for allowing them to join us, the Omniplex staff, our Park Board, City Council, Mayor Woody Jacobs and the Cullman County Commission for helping make this day special.”
The event is free to attend, but RSVPs are required for lunch. Those wishing to reserve a seat can call 256-734-4803.
Organizers are encouraging families, friends and community members to attend in support of Cullman County’s veterans and to reflect on their dedication and sacrifice.
