The local community saluted the sacrifices and service of veterans and current military service members during Emporia’s 68th Veterans Day celebration.
Activities in Emporia began Thursday morning on Commercial Street with the annual Veterans Day parade. Among those who walked and rode in the proceedings was Kansas Lt. Governor David Toland.
Toland says it felt great to celebrate Veterans Day and to do so in the holiday’s birthplace made the experience even better.
Following the parade’s conclusion, activities shifted to the All Veterans Memorial for the annual memorial service which included a playing of the national anthem, Taps and a 21-gun salute.
Kansas Air National Guard Brigadier General Michael Vernerdi was the featured speaker for the service. Vernerdi’s address focused on three key points Thursday, thank you, expectations and continued service.
Vernerdi says our thanks should not only be given to service members past and present, but also to their “foundational support teams.”
Activities will continue into the weekend with the Quilts of Gratitude Ceremony at the Lyon County Fairgrounds Anderson Building beginning at 2 pm Sunday. Both 2020 and 2021 honorees will receive their quilts at that time.
Photos by Tagan Trahoon and Ron Thomas/KVOE NewsÂ
