CULLMAN, Ala. – With an estimated 7,000 (and that number is increasing) veterans in Cullman County, it can be hard to find a way that makes everyone feel seen, heard and appreciated on Veterans Day. Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Ken Brown, a mover and shaker in the local veteran community, suggests that perhaps the answer is meeting these veterans, listening to their stories and showing heartfelt gratitude, face to face. A perfect opportunity is coming up Saturday, Nov. 4, at the Cullman Regional Airport, which will host the annual Cullman County Veterans Day Celebration.
“I think it’s important when we talk about recognizing veterans, that the community comes out,” he said, noting that while the community gets larger and busier, the level of support for veterans has stayed the same over the years, or even dwindled at times. “Just one day a year, take some time out for a few hours before Auburn and Alabama play football and come out to the Veterans Day Celebration we always do the first Saturday of November.”
The event is a big and boisterous one with myriad family-friendly activities that focus on life as a serviceman or servicewoman, and life as a veteran: tour military vehicles and aircraft, some dating back to WWII; ride in a Huey helicopter; view historic military weapons; enjoy and learn from period reenactors in full dress; and learn more at booths hosted by veterans organizations.
Brown encourages all Cullman residents to come out and show their support for Cullman’s veterans, beyond a Facebook post or quick text, if only for just a couple of hours.
“Just hug a few vets, show them and their families that the sacrifices they made, the things they’ve done for our country, mean something to the rest of us. We’re worth it,” he said.
The Cullman County Veterans Day Celebration will be held Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Cullman Regional Airport, located at 231 County Road 1360, Vinemont, AL 35179. Parking and admission are free.
Get more details at www.cullmanveteransday.com.
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