“We can’t all be heroes, because somebody has to sit on the curb and applaud when they go by.” – Will Rogers

 

That Covington County is a great place to live is never more evident than when she honors veterans. This year’s Veterans Day celebration was no exception.

It is a thing of beauty to see East Three Notch lined not only with flags, but also with people who line the streets, standing to cheer when veterans pass.

Yesterday’s Veterans Day celebration – the 11th of its kind – represented the collaborative work of many people. City of Andalusia officials and employees, the Andalusia Area Chamber of Commerce, Andalusia Ambassadors, Daughters of the American Revolution, Andalusia High School Band, Straughn High School Band, local Boy Scouts each had a part. Also thanked in the official program were Andalusia Regional Hospital, Southeast Alabama Gas District, Hugghins Supply Co., Jade Homes, Andalusia Manor, First Baptist Church, Russell and Kristen Wiggins, Ottis Reynolds, Jan White, Steve Dyess, Gary Buck, Barbara Peek, Mark Griggs, 1-11th AVN Regt from Fort Rucker, SPC Tyler Paterson, and SMSGT Billy Piggot, SFC Darrin O’Neal and GM1 Mike Hayden.

The guest speaker, Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Walter D. Givhan reminded us that while we are quick to recognize those who have been on active duty, those families who wait at home also serve. War, he said, affects all of us.

It’s great to live in a community that appreciates those efforts and shows up to prove it.