Big Sandy honors local Veteran's

I grew up respecting Veterans Day; my father was a vet. But it wasn't until my daughter, Serena, and her husband, Kody, were home did I fully understand the depth of the day. I remember my father tearing up every time the national anthem was played, and he insisted on flying the flag daily.

I thought I would visit with a few because I knew whether the vets could tell me or not was important. I wanted to allow them to express themselves. Most of them probably would have liked a little more time to think. But overall, they were proud to serve our country. They recognized it was because of their willingness and for those who served years before them that have protected our freedoms. Now for almost two and a half centuries. Nonetheless, they were proud of their service and contribution to the cause.

They mentioned that respect for the day is fading a little bit. It comes, and it goes. "Most of my family have all been veterans: my dad and all my brothers. When I was old enough to know about Veterans Day, it seemed like everyone was a Veteran. Now not so much."

"I was proud to serve! It's a day to honor servicemen."

"It's a day to celebrate the freedoms we have."

"A party like this." Another veteran mentioned he's glad to celebrate Veteran's Day. He's happy when people can return to everyday life, "but many of my brothers did not, and they're living today with addiction, homelessness, and mental health issues. What they went through-my heart goes out to them, and I'm happy that I made it as good as I did back --into regular life. A lot of guys get physically or emotionally beat up over there. You know what I'm trying to say. What happened to them, or what were they made to do......"

"It makes me glad I was in the service. I look around and recognize I was a part of keeping what we have."

"A time to celebrate what veterans have done. They've gone above and beyond."

"Veterans Day means I can have the freedom to do whatever I want."

"I wish people would respect it more."

The Big Sandy Senior Center served a meal for the vets hosted by the Agri-Prairie Insurance company. First, it was delicious; ham with raisins if you wanted, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, rolls, and pie. We sang God Bless America, prayed, and ate together.

Like years before, both schools find a way to celebrate Veterans Day; both schools put on a program inviting Veterans. The 4th, 5th, and 6th-grade school students sang while the younger classes made poppy wreaths and artwork. I always cry when the Highschool band plays the anthems of every service branch while each member stands to be recognized. It always moves me.

This year Dick Thornton spoke about his years of service in the Navy. He flew helicopters finding bombs in the ocean. I was surprised about this part of his life because I never knew. It made me realize I don't know what the veterans went through in our community. I hope they felt honored. I know I don't have the words to express what should be expressed, but I hope they realize they have Big Sandy's respect.