Calhoun County, AL – Community members, elected officials, and local leaders gathered Thursday at Ladiga Landing for the “Liberty at the Landing” ceremony, part of the America 250 Alabama initiative, commemorating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States.
Hosted in partnership with the Calhoun County Commission and the Calhoun County Area Chamber and Visitors Center, the event centered around the dedication of a Liberty Tree, symbolizing freedom, unity, and civic responsibility.
Senator Keith Kelley opened the ceremony by welcoming attendees and recognizing the collaborative effort behind the event. He noted the historical significance of Liberty Trees during the American Revolution, describing them as gathering places where citizens met to discuss ideas of independence and self-governance.
“Liberty is not inherited—it is stewarded,” Kelley said. “Citizenship is not passive—it is participatory.”
The program included the Presentation of Colors by the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard, the National Anthem performed by Kynsley Carter, and an opening prayer led by Senior Pastor Derek Staples of First Baptist Church Jacksonville. A reading of the Declaration of Independence was also presented, reinforcing the historical themes of the event.
Major General David Pritchett, Adjutant General of the Alabama National Guard, delivered the keynote address. He emphasized the enduring responsibility of each generation to protect and uphold liberty, highlighting the role of citizen soldiers throughout American history.
“Liberty is not a permanent fixture that we can take for granted,” Pritchett said. “It must be actively guarded, nurtured, and defended by every generation.”
Pritchett also recognized the contributions of National Guard members currently serving both domestically and overseas, as well as the deep military roots within Calhoun County, including the legacy of Fort McClellan and Anniston Army Depot.
The event featured musical performances by the Gadsden State Community College Show Band, including patriotic selections such as “America the Beautiful,” “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” and “This Land Is Your Land.”
Local and state officials from across Calhoun County’s municipalities—including Anniston, Hobson City, Jacksonville, Oxford, Piedmont, Ohatchee, and Weaver—were recognized during the ceremony, reflecting the regional collaboration behind the initiative.
The program concluded with remarks from Calhoun County Tourism Director Cher Dulaney, followed by the official dedication of the Liberty Tree. Organizers described the tree as a lasting symbol that will serve future generations as a reminder of the nation’s founding principles.
As part of the broader America 250 celebration, the event highlighted both historical reflection and forward-looking civic engagement, encouraging attendees—particularly younger generations—to carry on the responsibility of preserving liberty.
