Spread the love

Staff report

Photos by Town of Elizabethtown

The Stand Down event in Elizabethtown, North Carolina, was a resounding success, echoing the town’s unwavering support for its veterans. Held at the Elizabethtown Baptist Church, this annual gathering provided a well-deserved break for veterans and offered valuable resources to aid in their transition to civilian life.

Organizers and representatives from local veterans organizations took to social media to express their heartfelt appreciation to all who made the event a triumph. The community’s outpouring of support, coupled with the organizers’ dedication, ensured that the Stand Down was a meaningful experience for all involved.

In the past, Veterans like Oliver Gause and Wally McQueen highlighted the event’s significance, emphasizing its role as a platform for accessing vital support services. Their sentiments underscore the importance of initiatives to enhance the well-being of those who have served their country with honor and courage.

Leon Grimes, a Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Specialist, used the occasion to announce an upcoming event to further the cause of veteran support. Collaborating with various organizations, including NC Works, the Town of Elizabethtown, and the Elizabethtown-White Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, Grimes unveiled plans for an extensive Job Fair and Veterans’ Stand Down in Bladen County.

The event commenced with a distinguished presentation of colors by the Paul R Brown Leadership Academy cadets, setting a dignified tone for the proceedings. Bladen County Commissioner and esteemed Military Veteran, Dr. Ophelia Munn-Goins, graced the event as the honored guest speaker, sharing inspiring insights with attendees.

Amidst the engaging discussions and informative presentations, members of the Elizabethtown Rotarians generously served pizza and water to ensure attendees stayed refreshed and energized. Meanwhile, various vendors seized the opportunity to provide valuable information and present enticing job opportunities, enriching the experience for all those in attendance.

The success of the Stand Down event in Elizabethtown reminds us of the town’s steadfast dedication to its veterans. Through events like these, the community demonstrates solidarity and compassion, embodying the true spirit of unity and support for those who have sacrificed for the greater good. As Elizabethtown continues to rally behind its veterans, it reaffirms its status as a beacon of appreciation and gratitude for those who have served with distinction.