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A dove release symbolized peace and remembrance at the Veterans Day ceremony on Monday. (Photo by Storme Smith)

Veterans Day ceremonies in Columbus and Saluda recognized those who have served. (Photo by Storme Smith)

Joyce Preston and Gina Cashion laid a wreath at the Columbus ceremony to honor those who have served. (Photo by Storme Smith)

VFW Post 9116 Commander David Collins spoke at the events. (Photo by Storme Smith)

The Girl Scouts' participation added a heartfelt touch to the proceedings. (Photo by Storme Smith)

Author Steven Zaley regaled the audience with stories from his book focused on the 82nd Airborne, commissioned by the U.S. Army, highlighting his father’s service as a division member during World War II (Photo by Storme Smith)

COLUMBUS—On November 11, Polk County Memorial Post 9116 VFW proudly marked 41 years of honoring local veterans with two poignant ceremonies. These Veterans Day events were powerful reminders of the sacrifices made by US military members and the community’s enduring gratitude for their service.

The first event occurred at 11 a.m. at Veterans Park in Columbus, followed by a ceremony at 3:30 p.m. at Veterans Park in Saluda. Notably, the planned Veterans Day Parade in Columbus was canceled this year, shifting the focus to intimate remembrance gatherings.

The Columbus ceremony commenced with emcee and VFW Post 9116 Commander David Collins extending his gratitude to attendees and warmly welcoming three local Girl Scout troops, Troop 1819 from Columbus, Troop 10071 from Mill Spring, and Troop 10213 from Lake Lure.

The Girl Scouts’ participation added a heartfelt touch to the proceedings.

“We’re excited to be here today to help with the Pledge of Allegiance, sing some songs, and support our veterans,” troop leader Keturah Donigol said.  

In a special presentation, author Steven Zaley regaled the audience with stories from his book focused on the 82nd Airborne, commissioned by the U.S. Army, highlighting his father’s service as a division member during World War II. 

VFW Auxiliary President Joyce Preston took the stage next, delivering a moving message of thanks to the veterans for their unwavering service and sacrifice. VA Service Officer Gina Cashion followed, emphasizing the essential contributions of veterans, both past and present. Together, Joyce and Gina laid a wreath to honor those who have served.

The ceremonies culminated in a solemn salute from the Polk County Memorial Guard and a touching dove release, assisted by a pair of Girl Scouts, symbolizing peace and remembrance.

Kurtis Pike of the Polk County Memorial Guard, a US Army veteran, summed up the day’s events.

“It is important to remember the veterans, what they did for this country, and the sacrifices they made,” said Pike.

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