Calhoun County, AL –
Whether it’s World War II, The Gulf War, the war in Afghanistan, or any other theater in the world, we should always be grateful for the brave men and women who have volunteered for the US Armed Services. Today, there are 16.2 million veterans throughout the United States (US Census) , comprising both combat vets and the supporting individuals who have served their country.
The official Veterans Day is on Saturday, November 11, 2023, and the community should take a moment to acknowledge these individuals for dedicating a part of their lives to protect this country. Calhoun County has a significant number of vets who have chosen to make this their home since leaving active-duty service. As Calhoun County residents, we should take one day out of our lives to attend the Veterans Day ceremony at Centennial Park followed by the Veterans Day Parade in Anniston. This year, the Veterans Day parade will also honor three World War II vets currently residing in Calhoun County: Army vet Pleamer East, Navy vet Harsel Durham, and Navy vet Ralph Bierley, who will be in the parade as it travels down Noble Street. Many of our World War II vets have passed away over the years, so showing these men respect will demonstrate the greatness of Calhoun County residents.
The Calhoun Journal spoke with some veterans in the county and learned that these men and women are very proud of what they did but also remain very humble about their service. One of the veterans, who wished to remain unnamed, said, “It’s kind of sad how the crowds for the Veterans Day parades have become smaller than in previous decades. I don’t think it’s a loss of patriotism but just other agendas and movements taking more of a priority.” He went on to explain that without the freedom that this country’s military protects, we would not have the choices to openly address other agendas or movements.
It is also important to remember that an average of 22 veterans take their own life each day. Many of these men and women struggle with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) because of the things they had to see while out protecting our country. It is every American’s responsibility to show these brave warriors that they are still supported and loved by the country they fought to protect.
Many veterans agreed that Veterans Day should not be one of political party choice or stance. It is not about Republicans, Democrats, or Independents; it’s about honoring those who fight or have fought for the ability to have a political opinion that can be openly discussed.
If you have the ability to attend the ceremony, please do and take the kids so they can see what kind of people have been out there to protect them while they sleep in a free country.
