The history and significance of Veterans Day were explained by Cmdr. Danny Smith of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) at the October meeting of the Obadiah Volunteer Homemakers Club.

"Patriotism and Veterans Day go hand in hand as we look forward to celebrating on Nov. 11," said Smith to the group of 21 club members.

The patriotic spirit has spread to Americans of all ages, as evidenced by clothing, flag bumper stickers and flag waving on lawns. Recent events have made many aware what they have as Americans. Veteran's Day recognizes those who have protected and continue to protect American's way of life.

Originally Armistice Day, the observance was conceived as a tribute to all Americans who sacrificed their lives in World War I. Today, all American veterans who have served in any war – before or after World War I – are honored.

"As we celebrate this upcoming day, we will honor veterans then and forever because we know that without them, there would be no 'land of the free,'" Smith said.

When young men and women are asked to endure great hardships, drastically change their lifestyles and possibly give up their lives, the words "thank you" seem woefully insufficient, he said. In the days after Veterans Day, these individuals must continue to be honored.

"We must teach future generations what it means to be an American," Smith said. "Without our veterans, we wouldn't be where we are today. Without (them), we won't be able to reach where we could be tomorrow."

While not all veterans have seen war, they share a common bond is the oath they take which expresses their willingness to die to defend the nation.

"While we are happy to be here today, and on Veterans Day to express our appreciation for our veterans, true appreciation is expressed through needs – not words," Smith said.

When a member of Congress complains about the cost of' programs for veterans, remind the lawmaker of the cost of being a veteran.

But most importantly, Smith said to thank today's service members for the sacrifices they are making for America.

The second phase of the program included club members, who, as requested in advance, brought their personal military-themed photos. Each member stood and shared the military experiences of family members. Some had lifetime service, some short and some served on the home front. Some were seriously wounded, while some gave their lives.

Three Obadiah members served their country: Wallace Terry, U.S. Army Tech, 4th Grade; Stacy Matthews, E6, Navy; and Jackie Massey, lieutenant commander, Army National Guard.

Continuing the program's patriotic theme, Smith lead the Pledge of Allegiance and Zeno Limerick sang "The Star Spangled Banner."

A brief presentation on Meridian Community College was given by Larry Cook, who encouraged the club to be a better supporter of the college's programs and its students.

During the business session, Apphia Terry, secretary, distributed the September minutes for approval. She also checked members present and recycling.

Lida Tingle presented the Council Report.

Club President Virginia White appointed Nancy Cook, Robin Doerner and Barbara Stinson to the Nominating Committee.

Hostesses for the October meeting were Jackie Massey, Pat Vaughn and Barbara Stinson. The devotional was presented by Pastor Terry.

The Nov. 2 meeting will be the club's annual in-house auction. Each member will bring one item to be auction. Proceeds will go to various organizations the club supports throughout the year.

Hostesses for the November meeting will be Stacy Matthews, Jackie Pace and Wayne Lovett.



• Report submitted by Elouise Ethridge.