File photoThe Meridian Star will host a Military Appreciation Day from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday on the lawn at Meridian City Hall. 

The Meridian Star will host a salute to the men and women who serve our country at a community picnic this weekend.

The Military Appreciation Day, set for 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday on the lawn at Meridian City Hall, will give the community an opportunity to thank the military for all they do.

“We feel it is important to celebrate the sacrifices these individuals make for our freedom,” said Alexander Gould, publisher of The Meridian Star. “The military bases around the Meridian community, and the people on them have a huge impact on our region, and we hope this event, can become our community’s way of publicly saying thank you for being our neighbor.”

Capt. Brian Horstman, commanding officer of NAS Meridian, said the Sailors and Marines that live, work, and play at NAS Meridian are looking forward to the event.

“Our families are thankful to be a part of such a supportive community that welcomes us openly,” Horstman said. “Meridian and Lauderdale County has been home to military personnel for nearly 60 years now and we look forward to strengthening our already strong relationship with this community.”

Lt Col Brad Crawford, executive officer with the 186th Air Refueling Wing, said the day is another example of the local support the Air National Guard and other military organizations enjoy.

“It’s impossible to overstate the ways in which the National Guard is connected to our community,” Crawford said. “So when the community gives back through this and other military events, it feels good.

Saturday’s events will begin at 11 a.m. and continue until 2 p.m. with food, fun, and entertainment. On tap are free grilled hot dogs, food samples courtesy of Vic’s and Cafe 35, bounce houses, petting zoo, a car show, vendors handing out freebies, and a booth set up by Coyote Hills Equine Rescue and Therapeutic Riding, for its Horses and Heroes program, with Sully and mini therapy horses, and much more.

Entertainment will be provided by local musician Timmy Segars.

Gould credited the different community businesses and organizations for stepping forward to participate in the day.

“It is this willingness to participate that creates community,” Gould said.