JARRETT GOODMAN
Staff Writer
Marion County was recently bursting with celebration of Veterans Day, a time of year that honors the men and women who served the nation.
The idea to commemorate the nation’s veterans first began in 1919. At the time, President Woodrow Wilson designated Nov.11 an official day to remember the Allied veterans who fought and died in battle on the eleventh hour of Nov. 11, 1918 during WWI. That day became known as Armistice Day and President Wilson aimed to have it be commemorated with public meetings and parades, as well as have suspensions of certain businesses beginning at 11 a.m. Since its creation, Veterans Day has grown into a national holiday in remembrance of those who have served and for those who continue to do so in the U.S.
Marion County High School hosted its Veterans Day Program with students, faculty, and members of the Sequatchie Valley Veterans Honor Guard alike gathered in the school gymnasium to commemorate those who served the country. During the program, a folding of the American flag was demonstrated to those in attendance, showcasing each fold conducted and how everyone represents and pays tribute to veterans and what the nation stands for. Vice President of the Honor Guard Stan Brown explained all the folds and their meaning during the presentation. Local resident and veteran Brandon Headrick and his daughter Alaina also performed the song “Travelin Soldier” by Bruce Robison during the program, providing a musical touch of appreciation towards all veterans and what they did in their time of service.
Jasper’s annual Veterans Day Parade kicked off in bustling fashion as residents and participants gathered in the historic downtown and Betsy Pack Drive to march together in celebration of all veterans within the nation and community. Police and firemen from across the county lined up in unison to participate in the parade, in addition to other residents and community groups who handed out candy to spectating children and their families.
Marion County’s American Legion Post 62 also hosted a Veterans Day themed celebration for all its members and for others who served the nation, an event which helped further culminate into another successful season of honor and commemoration to the men and women who risked their lives serving the military.
Photos of Veterans Day Parade from Town of Jasper Facebook Page. Photos of Veterans Day Program from Marion County High School Facebook Page