Earlier this week, the Montgomery Chamber hosted a heartfelt Veterans Day Ceremony to honor the brave men and women who have served our nation. The event brought together community members, leaders, and veterans, creating a space filled with pride, gratitude, and remembrance.
The ceremony began with a warm welcome from Caryn Hughes, who invited attendees to rise for the National Anthem, performed beautifully by Master Sergeant Adrienne Barron of the 187th Fighter Wing. Following this patriotic start, Chaplain Wylly Collins, Senior Army Chaplain with the Alabama National Guard, provided an invocation, reminding all of the spiritual foundation behind our freedom and our ongoing support for veterans.
This special day would not have been possible without the generous support of presenting sponsor Caddell Construction, along with lineup of honored guests. Among them were notable leaders such as Montgomery County Commission Chairman Doug Singleton, Montgomery Mayor's Chief of Staff Colonel Jerime Reid (Ret.), Pike Road Mayor Gordon Stone, Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Jeff Newton, and Alabama Supreme Court Justice Will Sellers. Senior military leaders, including Lieutenant General Andrea Tullos of Air University and Major General David Pritchett of the Alabama National Guard, were also present to share in the celebration.
Montgomery Mayor's Chief of Staff Colonel Jerime Reid (Ret.) and Commissioner Doug Singleton offered inspiring words, highlighting the community’s commitment to those who have served. Each message spoke to the importance of honoring veterans and their families not only on this day but throughout the year.
Major General David Pritchett, Adjutant General of the Alabama National Guard, delivered a powerful keynote address that resonated deeply with everyone in attendance. Drawing from his extensive military career, General Pritchett emphasized the resilience, strength, and dedication that embody our veterans. As the leader of over 14,000 Soldiers, Airmen, and civilians in Alabama, he spoke from the heart, uniting the audience with his message of gratitude and respect. “Veterans Day is our time to pause, reflect, and honor the brave men and women who have served this nation with unwavering courage and dedication," he said. "Today, we express our gratitude—not just for their service, but for the sacrifices that come with it. This is a day to honor all veterans: those who have served in peacetime, those who have fought in wars, those who stand on the front lines, and those who support from behind. And let us never forget the families who have sacrificed so much alongside them.”
The ceremony also spotlighted the efforts of local organizations dedicated to supporting veterans. Candi Paegler from the Council on Substance Abuse (COSA) took the stage to speak about the critical role her organization plays in reducing substance abuse and supporting veterans in Montgomery. Her remarks were followed by a musical performance from Jessica Kim, a talented student from Booker T. Washington Magnet School. Jessica’s performance served as a reminder of the enduring spirit of our country.
The Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Jeff Newton presented the prestigious Lt. Col. Robert M. Horton Jr. Memorial Service Award to Ms. April Turner from the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services. Ms. Turner’s work with veterans facing traumatic brain injuries has been invaluable, demonstrating compassion and commitment to those who have sacrificed so much.
Montgomery County Commission Chairman Doug Singleton again took the podium to discuss Operation Green Light, a program dedicated to raising awareness for veterans’ mental health and wellbeing. His remarks provided valuable information on initiatives aimed at supporting veterans transitioning back into civilian life.
The ceremony concluded with a moment of silence, offering time for personal reflection and prayer to honor the sacrifices of our veterans. In a powerful final gesture, the Chamber invited all veterans in attendance to stand and be recognized, acknowledging their enduring legacy and impact on our community.
As the Montgomery Chamber, we are deeply proud to honor our veterans. Their service reminds us that freedom comes at a great cost, and we remain grateful for their sacrifices and the example they set for future generations. To all our veterans, THANK YOU for your service, your courage, and your commitment to our nation.
See photos from the Veterans Day Ceremony: https://flickr.com/photos/montgomerychamberofcommerce/albums/72177720321768862/
