On Saturday afternoon, Selma American Legion Post 20 and the Alabama National Guard joined forces to host Veteran’s Appreciation Day at the National Guard Armory.

The two groups came together over the weekend to host an event where both Veterans and first responders could receive the recognition the American Legion believes they deserve.

Selma American Legion Post 20 Chaplain Thomas Wright said that the sacrifice veterans make often goes unappreciated.

“These men and women,” said Wright, “Have payed the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Many of them have traveled overseas and shed blood, some have shed more than that, so that we can be free.”

Wright thought it equally important that first responders be recognized as well.

Wright personally went to the Selma Fire Department (SFD) and invited the firefighters to attend Saturday’s event.

In addition to the many veterans and SFD, other first responders attended the event including state troopers, police officers and Sheriff Mike Granthum and Chief John Hatfield of the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department.

The American Legion provided everyone with fried catfish and hushpuppies and the Alabama National Guard supplied BBQ from Golden Ranch BBQ and Grill.

In addition to food, several door prizes were given away at the event.