2024 Edgefield County Veterans Day Ceremony
This article was published in The Edgefield Advertiser on November 13, 2024
Through the rain clouds, a glimmer of sun managed to welcome community members gathering for the annual Veterans Day ceremony at Edgefield Veterans’ Memorial Park on Monday, November 11, 2024.
Edgefield County has long honored those who have served and this year’s Veterans Day ceremony was no exception. People from across the county filled the chairs lined in rows with a display of fluttering flags as a backdrop. Among them were veterans, many wearing caps adorned with an insignia from their years of service. Their presence and solemn dignity were living reminders of the ceremony’s purpose.
Guest speaker Rob Keck, a distinguished conservationist who served as CEO of the National Wild Turkey Federation, perfectly shaped the mood and captured the audience with powerful remarks about the enduring contributions of America’s veterans. Reflecting on the breadth of citizens who make up the nation’s military, he noted, “Our veterans come from all across America, representing the diversity and character of our great nation – and our military is stronger for it.” Keck highlighted the qualities that elevate veterans, describing them as leaders and volunteers both during their service and in civilian life. He emphasized their fighting spirit, calling it “the backbone of our great nation,” and praised their commitment to the highest standards of service “at home and abroad…at sea and ashore…in combat and in times of peace.” “They’re role models for all our citizens. They want to achieve, and they want to win,” he added. His words underscored the extraordinary sacrifices and unwavering dedication of those who have served and those currently serving today.
The spirit of community support continued to be reflected throughout the event. Post 30 Legionnaire Steve Julian served as the master of ceremonies, skillfully guiding the program and ensuring the ceremony ran smoothly. Pastor Lawrence Carrigan conducted the opening and closing prayers. Maegan Hodges moved the crowd with her graceful rendition of the national anthem and Post 30 Adjutant Jane Doolittle honored the memories of our POW/MIA comrades. Samantha McClure’s recitation of the poem The Service of Veteransadded a deeply personal touch to the gathering.
Scott Bruton, South Carolina Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) State Color Guard Commander, wearing an authentic Revolutionary War uniform, posted the colors and provided a colorful, historical punctuation to the day. The community was honored by Senator Shane Massey’s attendance and his continued support for our veterans. The event wouldn’t have been possible without the professional crew from the town of Edgefield who set up the sound system. As always, citizens who gathered were appreciated by the organizations who work together annually to host the event: Edgefield County Veterans Affairs Office, VFW Post 6932, American Legion Posts 154 and 222 of Johnston, and Edgefield American Legion Post 30.
