Saluting their service

Veterans Day, a federal holiday observed annually on Nov. 11, is set aside as a time for the nation to honor all U.S. military veterans for their service to our country.

In McMinnville, that observance will culminate in the annual "Veterans Day Celebration at the Park" ceremony at the Park Theater Wednesday, Nov. 11 at 6 p.m. Doors will open at approximately 5:30 p.m. and seating is general admission. Accessible and handicap seating are available. Admission as well as refreshments are free.

The ceremony will feature music from McMinnville's Silver & Gold Band, Tennessee's oldest community band, remarks from Bryan Kell, McMinnville Mayor Ryle Chastain and Warren County Executive Terry Bell as well as special presentations by Jody Seawright of Quilts of Valor, Gentiva Hospice and Jon Flanders, Lt. Col., ASAF (retired). The keynote speaker for the event will be Zenaida Dawson of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

As it has since the inception of the Park's Veterans Day event, Miller Photography will provide free professional photographs for any veteran in attendance. Members of the Warren County High School JROTC will serve as ushers.

“Veterans Day is an opportunity for our community to pause, reflect and express our deepest gratitude to the men and women who have served our nation and defended the freedoms we enjoy," Mayor Chastain said. "As we gather at the Park Theater on Nov. 11, we will not only honor the veterans who call McMinnville and Warren County home but also recognize the 250th anniversary of our great nation. Our history was built on the courage, sacrifice and dedication of those willing to serve something greater than themselves. It is my hope that this evening will serve as a meaningful tribute to our veterans and a reminder that their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

Park Theater management is happy to open the doors to the historic theater to continue to serve as a community gathering space as envisioned by original Park Theater owner Cowan Oldham.

“We are incredibly proud to provide the space for this annual event and an opportunity for the community to come out to celebrate and honor our local veterans," Park Theater Manager Joe Harvey said. "We want to thank everyone who makes this event possible, from our speakers and performers to the sponsors and local organizations who come out to help. It's truly a community effort to pull off this important event."