Laura Young
ECB Publishing, Inc.
Veterans Day, originally called Armistice Day, was established at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month in 1919. It marked the first anniversary of the Armistice agreement that stopped the fighting in World War I while terms of a permanent peace were discussed. In 1926, a Congressional resolution made it an annual observance, and in 1938 it was designated a national holiday. Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans – living or dead – to thank them for serving their country whether during war or in peacetime.
One way to honor local veterans this Nov. 11 is to attend the Veterans Day Breakfast.
American Legion Post 49, located at 1065 S. Water St., prepares this breakfast every year, and the event is free and open to the entire community. The menu includes eggs, sausage, grits, fruit and biscuits and gravy. No reservations are needed. Just show up! Doors open at 8 a.m. and plates will be served at 8:30 a.m..
This year's guest speaker will be Dr. Anna Likos, a military veteran and medical doctor, who will share her knowledge of “The Military and Medicine” at 9:10 a.m.
Many of the Military Tribute Banners that were on set up around the courthouse in 2022 and 2023 are now on display at the Legion Hall. While Rotary of Monticello has prepared a new set of banners to display around the courthouse for November 2024, Commander Ed Gifford says the American Legion breakfast is a great time for residents to also view the banners from previous years that feature veterans with connections to families in our community.
During the event, two guns will be raffled off – a rifle and a pistol – as well as a rose propagated by Cheryl Gifford. Tickets for a change to win cost $5, and the drawings will take place at 9:30 a.m.
The Veterans Day Breakfast will conclude at 10 a.m.