Pierce County’s Veterans Day observance was centered around “service’.
The ceremony was held Monday morning at the Historic Blackshear Train Depot.
Lt. Commander Don Evors, U.S. Navy Retired, was the guest speaker.
Evors served 20 years in the reserves, including at Mayport and Kings Bay. In civilian life, he has worked in law enforcement.
Evors stressed duty and service during his remarks, noting he had good examples at home, through his parents, the Rev. Eugene and Helen Evors. Helen Evors’ funeral was held Monday afternoon.
“I had great examples at home and my mother spent her life serving and doing for others,” he said, fighting back tears.
Evors said he was inspired to serve his country in the Navy out of a sense of patriotism.
“We live in the greatest country in the world,” he said. “That should be a motivation to give back.”
He offered his thanks to all the veterans present, recognizing their service to the country. He especially singled out Vietnam veterans.
“I am sorry your service was not always recognized and appreciated as you returned from Vietnam,” he said.
Evors said he is glad that has changed and people routinely come up and thank him and his fellow veterans for their service.
Lt. Commander Don Evors (U.S. Navy, Retired) was the guest speaker at this year’s Veterans Day Ceremony.
“It took the awful events of 9-11 to change that, but I am glad we have a new appreciation for patriotism and service,” he said.
Theme songs for each branch of the service were played during the ceremony and veterans from that branch stood and were recognized. The program also featured the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem.
Commander Guylee Washington Jr. of the C.C. Stephens AMVETS Post 621, gave the invocation.
Washington is a native of Offerman and currently serves on the city council there.
Veteran, retired radio station owner and former County Chairman Troy Mattox was the emcee. Evors was introduced by Better Hometown Manager Bethany Strickland.
The Rev. Morris Pate, U.S. Navy (Retired) offered the benediction.
Main Street Blackshear sponsored the event with the Blackshear Rotary Club assisting. Breakfast was provided by Flamin Smokers BBQ.
