CULLMAN, Ala. – Local veteran Don Fallin and a group of retired veterans managed a 52-mile trek across Iceland to fundraise and support the Cullman County Veterans Hall of Fame.
Fallin, a retired Army colonel and Cullman County Veterans Hall of Fame committee member, said the rugged trek across the remote landscapes of eastern Iceland became more than an outdoor adventure.
“It became a mission to honor the men and women who have served both their nation and the Cullman community,” Fallin said.
From Aug. 6-11, Fallin completed a demanding fundraising and awareness hike through the Borgarfjörður region of Iceland, traversing challenging mountain terrain and glacial landscapes.
“The effort was undertaken to help support the annual Veterans Hall of Fame induction ceremony and dinner sponsored by local veterans organizations,” Fallin said. “The fundraiser helps support the mission of the Cullman Veterans Hall of Fame, which recognizes local veterans who not only served honorably in the military, but also continued a lifetime of service to their communities after leaving the armed forces.”
According to the Hall of Fame’s mission, the organization seeks to recognize veterans who demonstrated outstanding character, sacrificed in service to their country and made lasting contributions to Cullman County, Alabama, and its residents.
“The organization also works to educate local residents about the history, service and sacrifices of Cullman County veterans,” Fallin said. “The Cullman Veterans Hall of Fame is administered and sponsored by the Cullman chapters of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion and Disabled American Veterans on behalf of the Cullman County Commission and municipalities throughout the county.”
Each year, the Hall of Fame recognizes a select group of veterans whose lives exemplify service both in and out of uniform.
“Their stories are preserved as a permanent tribute displayed within the Cullman County Courthouse, ensuring future generations remember the sacrifices and achievements of local heroes,” Fallin shared.
Fallin said the Iceland trek was a small way to shine a spotlight on those veterans and generate support for the annual induction event.
“These veterans have spent a lifetime serving others,” Fallin said. “This hike was about bringing attention to their stories and helping ensure they receive the recognition they deserve.”
The annual Cullman County Veterans Hall of Fame induction ceremony and dinner is scheduled for Nov. 17, at Loft 212 in downtown Cullman.
