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And I’m proud to be an American

Where at least I know I’m free

And I won’t forget the men who died

Who gave that right to me

And I’d gladly stand up next to you

And defend Her still today

‘Cause there ain’t no doubt

I love this land

God Bless the U.S.A.

We’ve all heard Lee Greenwood sing “God Bless the U.S.A.,” but locals in our community have taken this verse to heart, maybe not directly, but their time and effort has shown that they believe the message.

For months, the members of the Covington Veterans Foundation – a group of local community members – all of whom are busy people – have worked diligently to ensure that leading up to Veterans Day this year, that all of our heroes – past and present were acknowledged, that their sacrifices didn’t go without gratitude.

They set up an amazing program last Sunday that’s hands down the best patriotic program I’ve seen.

Driving downtown, the faces of our heroes are on display for all to see, you’ll for sure get chill bumps.

At city hall, there’s a display for children and adults alike to learn more about our local veterans.

As always, the Veterans Day parade on East Three Notch Street and ceremony at our very own veterans memorial was second to none.

But it’s no surprise here.

Andalusia and Covington County people are some of the most patriotic people in the country.

Outsiders would be hard-pressed to find a community that holds veterans so near and dear to their hearts.

We put out American flags throughout town every chance we get and say the Pledge of Allegiance, too.

The Daughters of the American Revolution have a festive Fourth of July Parade each year and it’s open to anyone.

In Opp, the AMVETs holds a Memorial Day ceremony honoring the fallen at Peaceful Acres. Andalusia has one, too.

Just recently, in Florala, Rodney J. Evans, Medal of Honor recipient, and Florala native, who gave his life in Vietnam was honored.

Covington Region Honor Flight has for the last decade flown numerous World War II, Korea and Vietnam veterans to Washington, D.C., to allow those men and women the opportunity to see the memorials dedicated to their conflicts.

Local schools hold programs honoring veterans, others write veterans letters.

Local hospices and nursing homes hold their own programs as well.

The list could go on and on about how our locals make sure that those who served in the military and especially those who lost their lives aren’t forgotten, and that we’re all proud to be American, and proud of the freedoms we enjoy because of these men and women.