Veterans Honored At Annual Program At Columbia Walmart

Nov 12,2009 00:00 by Lawrence Harris

With the tragedies that have struck the U.S. Military, soldiers killed in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as the recent slaying of 13 military personnel at Ft. Hood, TX by one of their own over the past few weeks, the Columbia Walmart Supercenter once again pulled out all the stops to honor those who have served in the past and those currently around the world with their annual Veterans Day Program.
This year Walmart held the program outdoors, but unfortunately the weather didn't cooperate as a chilly wind swept across the area, forcing many of the participants to either held to their cars or inside the store for warmth.
In spite of the chilly temperatures, close to 100 vets and their families came out to show their support and respect for Adair County's veterans.
The 11th annual Veterans Program got underway at 8:00 a.m. yesterday morning and included a catered breakfast provided by McDonalds, OK Country Cooking, Spy Street, Circle R, Walmart Subway and Dean's Milk.
After the meal the program began with an opening prayer from Bro. Joseph Payne and the presentation of Colors by the Columbia VFW Post 6097 Color Guard, followed by the singing of the national anthem by Bailey Brown.
After Brown's performance of the Star Spangled Banner, Walmart Asst. Manager Adam Morrow led the Pledge of Allegiance and the Columbia VFW Post 6097 retired the colors as part of the opening ceremony.
To show their appreciation for the sacrifices the men and women who served their county, Walmart also presented each veteran with a goody bag. Photo:Retired U.S. Army First Sgt. Tom R. Boyle makes a stop to visit with friends while heading towards the breakfast line at the Columbia Walmart Veterans Day Program yesterday. (Photo By Lawrence Harris)