Brown County veterans were honored for their service during the annual Veterans Day program at the Larry C. Banks Memorial Gymnasium on Nov. 10.
The program is hosted every year by Brown County Schools.
Lt. Col. Dave Endris with the National Guard was the keynote speaker.
The 50th anniversary of Banks’ ultimate sacrifice to his country was also recognized during the program.
Banks was the only Brown County resident to be killed in combat in the Vietnam War. His sisters Sandra Summers and Linda Pantoja were also recognized along with Banks’ friend since elementary school Michael O’Hara.
O’Hara has been working to make sure the community never forgets Banks’ name. He and a committee of classmates were responsible for getting the Brown County High School gymnasium renamed in Banks’ honor.
All branches of the military — and widows — were recognized during the program.
The Brown County High School and Junior High choirs performed along with the high school’s band.
The Brown County History Club presented a banner signed by students thanking local veterans to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6195 and the American Legion Post 13.
The History Club also presented a documentary members made about Banks’ life and service during the program.
The VFW also announced the winners of the Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pin essay contests. Brown County students Tanner Bowman and Savannah Poling won those contests.
The program also featured a social hour for veterans prior. All veterans and their families were invited to attend a luncheon that was provided afterwards by the school district.
Check out photos from the program here:
