Veterans Day – Voice of Democracy
Local Veterans line up at high school ceremony.
Lynn Bledsoe
Gimlet Reporter
Nov. 11, 2024- ECHS held their Veterans Day program. This is a favorite of the county and always draws a large crowd. The Bank of Edmonson County provided the hospitality room for the Veterans.
Local Veterans were honored and asked to speak about giving advice to the students. Edmonson County has veterans from different branches and from different ages. There were many present that were from the same family. Advice ranged from encouraging students to enlist, to follow their dreams and work hard. The students were respectful at all times.
The three finalists in The Voice of Democracy contest presented their essays on the theme; Is America today our forefathers vision. The VFW post 6937 members chose the winners. The sponsors were Gravil Funeral Home, PVA Kyle White and County Clerk Kevin Alexander.
3rd place went to Maggie Cassidy daughter of Marty and Stephanie Cassidy. Maggie spoke about how the constitution was constructed and the dedication our forefathers had to keep the United States free. She mentioned the military and those who volunteer to service. Maggie also mentioned the freedom to vote, which ensures everyone has a say.
2nd place went to Cariann Williams daughter of Whitney and Jonathan Williams. Carriann spoke about when the Declaration of Independence was written our forefathers believed each individual had certain rights. She acknowledged that without Veterans, the will to fight for our rights, it would be a different place. Cariann praised our forefathers for having the vision to establish a government that can grow and change as the country grows and changes.
1st place went to Brayden Johnson son of Jodi and Brad Johnson. Brayden talked about the diversity of the United States and how the country was probably not what the founding fathers envisioned. The Constitution covered freedoms but not economic and social liberties. Over time labor laws were established which stopped child labor and other inequalities. Many social inequalities have happened that have changed over time also. Brayden mentioned that the country has been shaped by a few individuals who made the United States better for everyone.
Edwin Vincent, Barydon Johnson, Cariann Williams and Maggie Cassady.
Edwin Vincent presented each of the students with a check and award for their winning speeches. Vincent said he read every essay, and they were all so outstanding that he asked for each one to receive an award. Each of the students that participated received a small check from Post 6937. Vincent encouraged the students to lead a life of service to their country. Vincent challenged any student to volunteer 1000 hours in the next year and if they do, he will give them $500 for them to donate to a charity of their choice. He impressed upon the youth by telling a story. Vincent said years ago at a gas station a young man asked him for some money for gas to get his family home for Christmas. Vincent refused but said he has always regretted his response and that it shamed him. No matter how many he helps now it will not make up for that one time he refused to help. He hopes the youth will be encouraged to learn the value of volunteering their time by his action.
Edwin Vincent challenges ECHS Students to get involved.
The ECHS choir and band performed beautifully and even left a few wiping away tears.
After the program all Veterans and their families were invited to the Heritage Center for a lunch provided by the DAV. The ladies did not disappoint. The conversations and fellowship were as good as the food, and everyone left with a smile on their faces.
DAV Ladies served a great meal that was much appreciated.
