Retired Air Force Master Gen. Thomas M. Sadler will be the keynote speaker at the 14th Annual Davidson Veteran’s Day Observance Monday, Nov. 12, at 11 a.m. on the Village Green. The event is organized by Davidson Parks & Recreation and American Legion Post 86.
When Gen. Sadler retired in 1983, he was the only general on active duty that had flown in combat in WWII, Korea, and Vietnam.
Presenting the colors will be color guards from American Legion Post 86, the Davidson College ROTC, North Mecklenburg High School Air Force Junior ROTC and Hopewell High School Army Junior ROTC.
Mayor-elect John Woods will open the ceremony with welcoming remarks. Invocation will be given by Rev. Mike Bailey, pastor of Mt. Zion Methodist Church. Master of Ceremonies is John Washam, Commander of American Legion Post 86.
A 21-gun salute will be presented by The American Legion Post 86, and “Taps” will be played. The American Legion Post 86 Auxiliary Women will place the “Wreath of Remembrance.” A flag folding ceremony will be held in which we will learn the meaning in each fold of the American Flag. Oliver Highman will sing the national anthem.
Veteran’s Day evolved from the Old Armistice Day ending WWI 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.
