On Sunday, Dec. 3, the Montgomery-Floyd-Radford branch of the NAACP held its veterans’ celebration at Asbury United Methodist Church in Christiansburg.
Approximately 20 veterans and 85 guests were warmly greeted.
The celebration of our nation’s heroes began with the posting of colors by the Christiansburg High School Corps of Cadets—Nathan Kellogg, Kraven Stevers, Addison Linkous and Kaylee Harris. Following this, Samuel H. Bishop welcomed everyone, and “The Star-Spangled Banner” was then sung by all. Chapter president Deborah H. Travis explained one of the goals of the NAACP’s Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs Committee is to advocate for equitable programs for veterans’ benefits.
Youth Council members Melvin Palmer and Nataliah Bishop read poems of honor, and Connie Teele shared her original poem, “The Military.” A musical performance was provided by Glen Holmes on piano and vocalist Alan Johnson who sang “A Change Gonna Come.” Branch Vice President Dr. Michael Herndon introduced the speaker, Commander Dr. David Points of the United States Naval Reserves, who eloquently spoke, sharing both historical and statistical information about the United States military. At the conclusion of the event, the color guard retired the colors, and everyone enjoyed a celebratory meal in the church community room.
Melissa N. Matusevich, NAACP Communications Committee Chair
