Malia Riggs
Elmore Autauga News
Members of the Prattville and Autauga County Community gathered Monday morning outside the Autauga County Courthouse for the Veterans Day Wreath Laying Ceremony.
The Ceremony began at 11:11 a.m., the 11th month, the 11th day and the 11th hour, signifying veterans’ sacrifices made for their country. The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month also has a historical meaning. Veterans Day is celebrated on the 11th day and the 11th month signifying when the allied nations and Germany ended the fighting of World War I, which keynote speaker Commander Janice Harris VFW Post 1349 stated in her speech.
Harris stated that she’s from Autaugaville and has served 28 years of active duty in the Air Force.
“I could never have dreamed a girl from Autaugaville, Alabama would be standing before you this morning, delivering a Veterans Day speech. In the 11th month, on the 11th day of the 11th hour, we gather to pay tribute to individuals who have worn the uniform of our nation’s armed forces. Veterans Day is more than a date on the calendar. It’s a day of promise to remember. Today we recognize all those among us who have been part of the great brotherhood and sisterhood we call the United States Military. Our veterans, active-duty members, guardsmen, and reservists. It was our service and sacrifice that kept our country safe and free,” Harris said.
The Ceremony started with the Presentation of Colors by Prattville High School’s JROTC, and the National Anthem sung by Legionnaire Joseph Colotario.
Other speakers included Commander of the Prattville American Legion Post 122 David Balda, Prattville Mayor Bill Gillespie. The invocation was given by Post 122 Auxiliary President, Martha Kay Bridges and the closing prayer given by Senior Vice Commander, Dept of Alabama American Legion, Willie Rogers.
“No matter what branch you served in, whatever your job path or how many years you served, raising your hand and committing yourself to servicing the military was a brave and selfless act,” Harris said.
Compatriots Allen Harrord and Skip Dotherow, Gen. Archer, Elmore Chapter American Society Sons of the American Revolution, were also present and stood tall in traditional regimental uniforms.
Members of the community gathered and remembered those who have served, are still serving and those who have also given the ultimate sacrifice.
The Flag Retirement Ceremony at the end of the program was done by Legionnaires David Balda, Charles Marsh, Lloyd Compton, Christine Shavers, and Jim Whitaker, Post Adjutant.
