ECHS Veterans Day Ceremony 2022: State and County Veterans Celebrated

Voice of Democracy Winners Deliver Remarks

Paul Vincent, Edmonson County's last living WWII Veteran at age 95, was honored as Judge-Executive Wil Cannon, proclaimed November 11, 2022 "Paul Vincent Day."

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Veterans from Kentucky and Edmonson County were specifically honored today at the annual Veterans Day program at Edmonson County High School.

Highlights from today's program included a proclamation read by Edmonson County Judge-Executive Wil Cannon as today was honored as "Paul Vincent Day." Mr. Vincent is Edmonson County's last living WWII veteran, and at age 95, he humbly received a copy of the proclamation to a standing ovation. Vincent served in both WWII and the Korean War, for both the U.S. Army and Navy.

Vincent has been a longtime familiar face in the county, participating in most all veteran events, regularly visiting multiple churches, and serving as a deacon in his own church for over 60 years, in addition to several other church roles. He is also known for singing his favorite song, "I'll Wear A White Robe."

Gerald Carroll, U.S. Army (ret) was today's guest speaker.

Gerald Carroll, U.S. Army (ret) and Commander of local VFW Post 6937 was today's guest speaker. He focused on several more notable veterans over the years that were from Kentucky and Edmonson County. Carroll became emotional several times as shared stories of those honored, which included those he knew personally. He also prepared a slideshow that was shown on the video board in the gym.

He also awarded the Voice of Democracy winners their prizes; first place was given to Ben Raymer, who was awarded $500. Second place was Addison Browning, who received $300, and Emma Claire Skaggs was awarded third place and $200.

Ben Raymer, first place winner of the Voice of Democracy.

Addison Browning, second place winner of the Voice of Democracy.

Emma Claire Skaggs, third place winner of the Voice of Democracy.

All veterans that attended today's ceremony were escorted in one-at-a-time and recognized by Principal Jonathan Williams as the program began. They lined up the entire length of the gym floor and all received a standing ovation.

Taylor Atwell, FFA President, led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance, Rep. Michael Meredith gave remarks on the meaning of "veteran," the ECHS band and choir performed several numbers, as well as a trumpet soloist performing "Taps."

After the program, all veterans, their families, and the community was invited to the Heritage Centre for a free luncheon, presented by the Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by DAV Auxiliary Chapter 32 and Patton Funeral Home. A veterans breakfast was hosted this morning at ECHS courtesy of Bank of Edmonson County.