Judge Wil Cannon Speaks At ECHS Veterans Day Program

Darren Doyle, story and photos
Judge Executive Wil Cannon was featured as the guest speaker at today's annual Veterans Day Program held at Edmonson County High School, along with the winners of the Voice Of Democracy speech writing assignment. 

Several students were involved in the program through opening prayers, welcoming guests, presenting colors, giving speeches, and the ECHS band, led by Jason Shores, played several patriotic hymns and songs.

Cannon, who is not only the current Judge Executive but also a retired KSP Trooper, former Edmonson County Sheriff, and Army Sergeant First Class, Ret. Cannon began his speech by saying he was unworthy to be the guest speaker because he never had to fight during his service, that he helped train soldiers, and that all honor needed to be bestowed upon the ones in attendance and others. 

Cannon shared some funny and entertaining stories about being a drill sergeant and even brought what he called "The Drill Sergeant's Alarm Clock," which consisted of a metal trash can lid and a large stick. 

Cannon encouraged all of the students in attendance to step up and do their part in either by serving or supporting America and Veterans everywhere. "Edmonson County has always been a patriotic county, and it needs to stay a patriotic county," he said. "Somebody has to step up and take our places. Somebody has to go fight wars, be a drill sergeant, a supply clerk, a truck driver...somebody has to. If you don't do your part, we'll have a broken system."

He closed by saying he was proud that Edmonson County and it's school system has always honored veterans and taken pride in the annual program. "Not all schools do this, I'm glad we still do," he said.

"If you want to live in the United States of America and enjoy freedom, then do your part, whatever it may be. My challenge to you is simply to step up and do your part," he said as he thanked the audience.

Several vets and their families were in attendance. We'll have another slideshow of the program in another post.