The 11th day of the 11th month. It’s a time set aside for the United States to honor men and women who made the decision to put country before self. Almost no place locally is it more fitting to observe Veterans Day than the Georgia War Veterans Home, the residential nursing facility watching over some 150 former service members that need care.
Friday marked the first time since 2019 that the veterans home could host its Veterans Day program to its full potential.
Russell Feagin, director of health and memorials for the Georgia Department of Veterans Service (DVS), opened the program by reminding attendees – elected officials, distinguished guests, veterans home employees, and of course the residents themselves – that every day is considered Veterans Day at the Georgia War Veterans Home.
“The care and benefits for our veterans are always our No. 1 priority as it really should be for everyone in this country because we owe our veterans and active duty members so much,” Feagin said.
Friday’s event had all the pomp and circumstance desired in a ceremony honoring military service members. Representatives from Wilkinson County High School’s JROTC presented the colors for the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance, led by veterans home resident and former Marine Corps Lance Corporal Robert Rackstraw, as well as the singing of the National Anthem performed by Angelyn Mize and retired Navy Chief Petty Officer Ben Sargent, who was representing the veterans home’s new management company STG International.
“We’re so thankful we’re here to serve the veterans that have served our country and to give back just a little bit for all they’ve given to us,” said Dennis Mize, executive director of the veterans home.
Those in attendance were also treated to singings of “America…
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