Published: November 12, 2009 02:11 pm      

City hosts Veteran's Day celebration

Crowds began gathering early for the annual Veteran’s Day celebration at Leonard Park.

The event included performances by the Gainesville Middle School and high school choirs under the direction of Susan and Kevin Beall, fly-overs by the Ghost Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force, a barbecue dinner sponsored by VFW Post No. 1922 and fireworks courtesy of the Gainesville Parks and Recreation department.

Parks and Recreation Supervisor Patrick McCage said the celebration went on “without a hitch.”

“Every year we work to fine tune this event to ensure that the public has a good time. We look forward to it every year, and I just want to thank all the departments who pulled together to make this thing a success — that includes the street department, fire and police departments and the parks and recreation department,” he said.

Organizers estimate around 1,000 guests turned out for the event which also included an address by Gainesville Mayor Glenn Loch at the Cooke County veteran’s war memorial.

“Mayor Loch does such a great job presenting veterans of past wars and welcoming visitors to the park,” McCage said.

Guest speaker for the celebration was Gary Alexander.

A Marine and a veteran of the Vietnam War, Alexander is a seasoned speaker who has addressed veteran’s groups, crime victim assistance agencies, law enforcement officers and schools, college and local governments. He is also a writer, photographer and an editor who has worked in media relations.

“Gary Alexander gave an impassioned speak that really stirred the crowd,” McCage said.

Other highlights of the event were the fly-overs by the Ghost Squadron and the pyrotechnic display.

McCage said the fireworks show is always a favorite with guests — even those outside the park area.

“We capped off the event with a fantastic fireworks show that was visible from as far away as Chalmer’s Estates,” he noted.

All over the city, many residents parked on side streets and parking lots to see the fireworks display.

Events such as Wednesday’s Veteran’s Day activities are good for communities, McCage said.

“It’s a chance for everyone to come out and show their patriotism and their appreciation for those who have served in America’s Armed Forces and those who are now serving in our Armed Forces,” he said.

November 11 was first declared a national holiday in memory of soldiers who were killed during World War I.

After World War II, the name of the holiday was changed to Veterans Day in the United States and to Remembrance Day in countries of the British Commonwealth of Nations.

Some European counties continue to celebrate Armistice Day.