BY SARAH STEPHENS
ELMORE/AUTAUGA NEWS
Photos by Bob Ealum, Malia Riggs and Sarah Stephens – EAN
(See full gallery below)
With the Civic Center adorned patriotically, and many in attendance offering thanks and praise, area Veterans were showered with love Thursday afternoon at the Millbrook Civic Center.
A Veterans Day celebration was hosted by the City of Millbrook and the Millbrook Area of Chamber of Commerce. Many thanks to the Millbrook Men’s Club that cooked up their camp stew for lunch, and Kingdom Dough that provided patriotic cakes that were (almost) too beautiful to eat. Food Outlet and Coca-Cola also contributed generously to make the day a success.
The welcome/introduction was led by Master of Ceremonies Carol Bowman.
The Presentation of Colors and Pledge of Allegiance was led by Trail Life and American Heritage Girls.
The National Anthem was sung beautifully by Wesley Morris, SEHS Band Director.
Pastor Brannon Bowman, of Millbrook Presbyterian and retired Colonel in the Air Force led a passionate prayer, asking God to bless all veterans in all wars, and those which will serve in the future.
Mayor Al Kelley then addressed the crowd, recognizing special guests and officials. He also thanked the Men’s Club and gave a bit of history that many may not know. When the Men’s Club was first established, it was made up of Veterans who had served during WWII. Coming home from war, the wanted to continue serving, but this time their own communities.
It was that group of original club members that made it possible to have land donated for Memorial Park, the construction of the Memorial center and the placement of a Memorial Marker. (Photo of marker within photos.) They also helped get the first medical center, fire department and telephone lines into Millbrook, among many other firsts before Millbrook was established as an official city.
Kelley said that veterans and their families make up a large percentage of area residents, and the city is better for it.
“There will never be enough words to tell you how much we appreciate what you have done, and continue to do, to serve both your country and this community.”
Mayor Kelley also recognized the family of military, saying they truly make the biggest sacrifices when a military member is called away to serve.
Kelley then read a proclamation in honor of Veterans of all branches, who served in wartime or times of peace.
“We have an obligation to our Veterans, one that we hold sacred,” he said.
