GIG LINE
By Marsha M. Brown
The long awaited anticipation for our second annual “A SALUTE TO VETERANS” is drawing nigh…only days away!
This year we have expanded and enhanced the program and quite frankly, I can hardly wait. If you’re a veteran, this event is dedicated to YOU. If you’re related to or know a man or woman who has served our country or if you work with a veteran be sure to invite them to come and share this experience with them.
This coming Saturday, November 3 – 7:00 PM, I promise you’ll be moved in a special way. I’m confident you’ll leave the event feeling more exhilarated, inspired and especially proud of our hometown and visiting service men and women. You might even look at our flag and what it stands for a little differently from that night forward.
Our lineup of speakers and entertainers is to say the least…impressive! Someone who has inspired our children, many of which are grown now, is Moncie ‘Punk’ Daniels who will emcee the event. ‘Punk’ is a local hero and retired teacher at Manteo High School and former football Coach of the Manteo Redskins. He’s a kind, sweet man and one who reflects on his time in the Military with great pride. Previously having served as a Dare County Commissioner, ‘Punk’, a U. S. Air Force Lt. Col. (Ret.), is excited to be a part of this event and he encourages everyone to join us.
During the course of the program, it will be his pleasure to introduce Betty Jo Shepheard, an Eastern Regional Field Representative, Office of U. S. Senator Richard Burr, who will read a letter from Sen. Burr to the veterans of Dare County. Ms. Shepheard, has worked with Sen. Burr for eight years now and she looks forward to being a part of this special event.
Other speakers will include Dare County Board of Commissioners, Chairman Warren Judge; former Commissioner Clarence Skinner a U. S. Air Force Major (Ret.) who also serves as Chairman of the Dare County Veterans Advisory Council; Clarence Lewis, U. S. Army SFC (Ret.) and Commander of the local American Legion – Fort Raleigh Post 26.
Key speaker will be Robert J. White, a decorated U. S. Army Vietnam Special Forces Combat Veteran (pictured) who is also a Master Bagpiper. Robert will not only address veterans but also perform several bagpipe selections. In a recent meeting with Billy and I, Robert reiterated what Billy has stressed for years now, that all men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States Military…is a veteran! Robert will share his personal history and experiences and encourage everyone to show the honor and respect that all veterans deserve.
Military ceremonies will include: Posting of the Colors by the U. S. Coast Guard – Oregon Inlet; the Thirteen Folds of the Flag and the P.O.W.- M.I.A. ceremony by the U. S. Army Recruiting Office of Elizabeth City, SFC Darrick McGee and his staff.
Songs will be performed by two local vocal artists Becky Smith and Wendy Hemilright; there will be a skit performed by Jason & Maryann Sherwood and others and a grand finale’ performed by ‘Fishstix’ – a talented group from Manteo First Assembly led by Elizabeth DeHart. And…for the WWII vets – our local version of ‘The Andrew Sisters’…Terry Reynolds, Cindy Arendtz and Karen Stanberry performing “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy of Company B”. WOW!
So my friends, for a great night of free entertainment, inspiration and family fun…please come. The program should last about 1.5 hours, there is plenty of parking and accessibility for wheelchairs/ambulatory concerns. Light refreshments will be served following the event.
We’ll look to see you at Manteo First Assembly (across from the Outer Banks Hotline – Manteo) or by GPS 812 Wingina St., Manteo 27954 at on Saturday, November 3, 7:00 PM.
Until next time, be happy, be happy, be proud and stay tuned…