Lauderdale County residents took time Wednesday to recognize and honor military veterans during a Veterans Day program at the East Mississippi Veterans Park. The annual event, which included a fly-over, color guard, 21-gun salute and more, is a both a celebration of the region’s rich military history and a promise not to forget the sacrifice veterans have made for their nation.
Robby Atkinson, who served as master of ceremonies for Wednesday’s program, said Veterans Day is a time to recognize those who’ve served in the U.S. armed forces, but honoring that service is something that must be done every day.
“One of my favorite quotes when you talk about a veteran, ’the true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him but because he loves what’s behind him.’ That love is what built communities just like ours here in Meridian and Lauderdale County, protected our classrooms and secured the right to gather here today,” he said. “And our greatest obligation to our veterans isn’t just offering a passing ‘thank you’ on one day a year. It’s living a life worthy of their sacrifice.”
Guest speaker for the program was retired U.S. Navy Capt. Todd “Ike” Kiefer, who challenged veterans and nonveterans to carry forward the legacy of service set by those who came before them. Getting involved in the community through civic organizations, attending public meetings and engaging with local leaders.
“To those on active duty in the military today, I express my gratitude for your service and pray that you will be salt and light from within our armed forces of government, fighting for truth and justice and upholding your oath to the constitution,” he said. “For those of you in the crowd who are retired, it is not time to rest. The cost of liberty is eternal vigilance.”
Jeff Summerlin, president of the East Mississippi Veterans Foundation, said thanks are owed to all veterans, and it is also owed to their families. It should not be forgotten that military families also make sacrifices, he said.
Summerlin also recognized members of the Meridian Museum of Art Collective, which recently completed a mural of the Key Brothers for the East Mississippi Veterans Park. The mural, painted on the tail of a KC-136, depicts the two brothers who pioneered air refueling just blocks from where the park sits today.
“Their talent, creativity and dedication have helped bring an important part of our local aviation history to life,” he said. “This mural is something our entire community can be proud of, and we sincerely appreciate the time and effort they put into making it happen.”