Rain made an outdoor ceremony impossible, so Davidson veterans, public officials and citizens gathered inside Davidson College Presbyterian Church Congregation House Wednesday morning for the 16th Annual Davidson Veterans Day Observance

Retired Army Maj. Gen. Charles H. Swannack Jr. will gave the keynote address at the event, which included singing of the National Anthem by Davidson College student Rieti Gengo, a flag-folding ceremony, and the presentation of colors by color guards from American Legion Post 86, North Mecklenburg High School Air Force Junior ROTC and Hopewell High School Army Junior ROTC.

Davidson Mayor John Woods offered welcoming remarks and John Washam, Commander of American Legion Post 86, was the emcee.

Veteran’s Day evolved from the Old Armistice Day ending World War I in 1918. The Armistice was declared on the 11th day of the 11th month at 11 a.m. It was to be the war that ended all wars, but as we all know, it didn’t end all wars, and today it has changed to “Veteran’s Day” to remember and honor veterans of succeeding wars.

VETERANS DAY GALLERY

Photos courtesy Davidson Parks & Recreation.