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Multiple events honor veterans

Kilgore News Herald - 11/4/2017

Nov. 04--John Edney's always eager to see what size of crowd turns out for the Kilgore War Veterans Association's semi-annual honors for those who served their country in the U.S. Armed Forces -- and for the men and women who continue to put their lives on the line today for their families, friends, neighbors and strangers.

For May's Memorial Day remembrance and November's Veterans Day ceremony, the association's president seeks out a speaker who will emphasize the sacrifice of members of the military and the impact each has on their homeland.

There's been a slight change to this year's speaker, he noted, bittersweet: disappointed the first guest couldn't make the event, Edney's eager to hear the perspective of the new keynote when the event gets underway at 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, at the U.S. War Veterans Monument at Harris Street Park.

Brandon Cochran is pastor of Highland Park Baptist Church, and vets have been a part of his life since the beginning.

"His whole family was veterans," Edney said, and he's keen to hear Cochran's anecdotes about their tenure in the military. "We've never had him speak before. It will be very interesting what he has to say -- he's a great speaker."

Per tradition, the ceremony will also include the posting of the colors, patriotic music and the playing of "Taps." Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.

Prior to the citywide service, Kilgore Middle School's annual Veterans Day ceremony is set for 9 a.m. Friday, Nov. 10, including performances by the band, orchestra and choir.

"Our speaker is Victor Boyd," says KMS' Debby Leppert, "who served in the Navy for 9.5 years."

There will be a reception in the school's library following the program and the Kilgore City Council member's remarks.

Likewise, Kilgore College's honors for veterans are set for noon Thursday, Nov. 9, in the Devall Student Center ballroom.

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(c)2017 the Kilgore News Herald (Kilgore, Texas)

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