In Simpsonville, the event was held at the Activity and Senior Center from 11 to 12 o’clock on November 11. After opening remarks by the Mayor, the invocation was offered by Chaplain Daniel Clark, of the Simpsonville Police Department. The keynote speaker was Simpsonville resident, Col. Roy Shelton, United States Marine Corps retired. He spoke of being a combat Marine and of the commitment needed to support our military. In referencing the future young citizens of this country, he encouraged their participation and patriotism to fight if necessary, to preserve our liberties.
Quilts of Valor were presented by Mr. Ken Hinkle, the upstate coordinator to, Lieut. Col. William Chapman US Army retired and Cpl. Henry George Edwards US Marine Corps. Refreshments for the event were provided by Caris Healthcare.
In Fountain Inn, the Veterans Day event was held at the Activity Center. The Upstate Senior Band played a patriotic prelude before the American Legion Post # 123 Color Guard presented the colors. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cmdr. Clyde Maybury.
Beth Zivitski, Fountain Inn Parks and Recreation staff member welcomed guests and recognized sponsors.
A POW/MIA remembrance and invocation was presented by chaplain LTC Dan Taylor US Army retired. He is currently the Minister of Senior Adults in pastoral care at the First Baptist Church of Simpsonville. His presentation was entitled ‘The Missing Man”.
God bless America was sung by Dr. Michael Hellams, and the guest speaker was introduced by Cmdr. Maybury. Col. Barrett Holmes retired shared his remarks “To Serve and Sacrifice”.
After a Quilts of Valor presentation the upstate Senior Upstate Band played “America the Beautiful” and “Echo taps”.♦