Local VFW POST 7623 and the American Legion POST 122 presented a Veterans Day program Monday at the county complex.
State Representative Terri Lynn Weaver treated the audience to her version of the National Anthem, and the program also featured performances by the DeKalb County Fighting Tiger Band, under the direction of Jonathan Wright, and the DCHS Chorus, under the direction of Josh Gulley.
Chuck Olsen opened with prayer, and Doyle Smith led the well-attended event in the pledge to the flag.
Edward Frazier introduced Retired Brigadier General of the Tennessee State Guard Billy Hawkins, who told the audience not to underestimate the contribution our veterans make.
“It has been said that if you can read, you should thank a teacher,” Hawkins said. “If you have freedom, thank a veteran. We remain free today because of the sacrifice, loyalty, and courage of our veterans.”
Also addressing the crowd was Executive Director of Operation Stand Down Nashville, Retired Lieutenant Colonel William W. Bill Burleigh.
Burleigh said that Operation Stand Down Nashville helps train and support honorably discharged and homeless veterans so that they can work their way off the streets and back into society.
Operation Stand Down Nashville is a  coalition of over 50 Davidson County-based organizations who have organized a three-day event for homeless veterans  for nearly 20 years.
“Some of the services we provide are employment, food, clothes, housing, shelter, and veterans benefits,” said Burleigh. “We are the only veterans service center in Tennessee approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs. We provide jobs, clothes, and money when it’s needed to complete the process of a veteran and their family receiving the help they need.”
A wreath was placed at the Veterans Memorial Monument at the courthouse after the event.
Emma Rigsby of the Fighting Tiger Band blew Taps to honor the fallen.
Many veterans and family members braved the rain to see Ronnie Redmon, Jr. Carlton Miller, Joe Goodwin, Edward Frazier and Jimmy Sprague place the tribute.