Veterans Day Parade and Commemorative Events Honor Service Members Across Calhoun County

November 12, 2024 – Calhoun County residents gathered to honor veterans in a heartfelt celebration for the 2024 Veterans Day Parade in Anniston, Alabama. Hosted by the Calhoun County Veterans Organization, the parade commenced at 2:00 PM along Noble Street, beginning at 15th Street and concluding at 9th Street. Thousands lined the streets, waving flags and applauding to honor veterans of all ages, with a special tribute to three WWII veterans who served as Grand Marshals: Harsel Durham and Ralph Bierley from the Navy, and Plemer East from the Army.

Honoring Veterans in Munford In Munford, a veterans event brought the community together to recognize service members with a program led by Munford Mayor Jo Ann Fambrough and keynote speaker Colonel Hattie Richardson. Mayor Fambrough welcomed the crowd, expressing gratitude for the gathering and acknowledging Munford’s support of its veterans. Colonel Richardson, a retired Army officer, delivered an impassioned speech honoring veterans for their sacrifices, noting, “You serve with distinct honor, strength, and bravery…selflessly, fearlessly, and unpretentiously.” Quoting scripture, she connected veterans’ dedication with values of humility and service, reminding all in attendance of their lasting legacy.

State Support and Reflections on Service Representative Steve Hurst addressed attendees, sharing plans for improvements in Munford, including a $328,100 grant to demolish an old building for a new community project. Hurst, a longtime supporter of veterans, thanked the city for its dedication to honoring those who serve and emphasized the importance of recognizing their efforts.

Stories of Service and Sacrifice Jon Cullimore, general manager of Coosa Valley Electric and a veteran, reflected on the impact of American service members overseas. Recounting his experience in Germany during the Cold War, Cullimore shared a memorable encounter with a German woman who expressed gratitude for American presence rather than Russian forces. “Veterans don’t just defend our country; they represent us to the world,” he said, emphasizing the global impact of U.S. service members.

Another poignant story came from Alena Centilli of Dovetail Landing, who shared the challenges her family faced after her son Daniel, a Marine who served in Afghanistan, suffered severe brain injuries. Centilli spoke candidly about her family’s struggles with limited VA resources, advocating for stronger support systems for veterans and their families. “These families and veterans do not deserve this,” she said, urging local communities to step up where larger institutions fall short.

The events in Anniston, Munford, and other parts of Calhoun County highlighted the resilience, dedication, and sacrifice of the region’s veterans and their families, underscoring a collective commitment to ensuring their service is never forgotten. As veterans and community members departed, the spirit of gratitude lingered, serving as a reminder of the ongoing need to honor and support those who have served.

Photos by Seth McWilliams and Shasta Jones

Videos by Shasta Jones