Veterans honored at memorial stadium
Published 1:37 pm Friday, November 12, 2021
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The Selma American Legion Post 20 sponsored its annual the Veteran’s Day ceremony on Thursday.
The event was held under a mild gentle breeze and overcast skies outside Memorial Stadium.
It’s a tribute to the local veterans who have served or currently serving in one of the military branches.
The Southside High School Air Force Jr. ROTC presented the colors and perform a flag folding ceremony. Quendashia Moorer, Wilneisha Smith, Quintarius Thomas and Carmello Craig were the Southside JROTC members who participated. Col. Brook Rollins and MSGT Alex Rollins, are JROTC instructors at Southside.
Veteran and American Legion Post commander Mark Boswell opened the event. U.S. Air Force vet and Benton Baptist Church Pastor Lee Tate did the prayer.
Eighteen year Army National Guard veteran — Jonathan Brown — was the guest speaker. Brown recalled his military career.
Brown says his military service instilled an appreciation for diversity in him.
“I think back to, I go into basic training where there’s 120 guys. It was good to see the differences in our country. But
the end of those six months, we were together. We were one. And to know that, man we all need each other. And we’re better together,” Brown said.
Brown, a married father of three kids,offered advice to the youth who are seeking a military career.
“My advice is listen to your teachers and thank them,” Brown said. “I am so proud to put on this uniform.”
Veteran Foreign War Post Quartermaster Rod Stone said he always enjoy seeing veterans come out for Veterans Day and Memorial Day.
Selma Mayor James Perkins Jr and Selma City Councilwoman Jannie Thomas attended the ceremony.
Hot dogs were served to guests after the ceremony.