Sunny Skies Over Greenwood as Veterans Get Honored

Sunny Skies Over Greenwood as Veterans Get Honored

GREENWOOD — It’s a beautiful, sunlit day here in Greenwood, where the community is coming together to honor its military veterans. Under a bright, clear sky with cool temperatures reaching a pleasant 61°F, the Greenwood Chapter of MOAA is getting ready for a special ceremony on Monday, November 11. This event will unveil banners that pay tribute to our cherished military heroes, both past and present.

Slated to kick off at 2 p.m., the event will be held at Mays Reception Hall in the Greenwood Arts Center, located at 120 Main St. Attendees can look forward to hearing from keynote speaker Linda Caldwell. Linda is not just anyone; her credentials are truly impressive. A graduate of the University of San Francisco School of Nursing, she holds a master’s degree from Rutgers University. Moreover, Linda served as a captain in the Army Nurse Corps from 1966 to 1969, including time spent in Vietnam.

Spotlight on a Heroine: Linda Caldwell

Linda’s contribution to nursing spans various fields such as intensive care, oncology, medical education, and even the pharmaceutical industry. Her remarkable story of working with an injured soldier in Vietnam earned her a segment on NBC’s “Unsolved Mysteries” back in 1990. Today, she serves as the president of the South Carolina Council of MOAA Chapters and is involved in the Aiken County Hometown Heroes Banner Project. She is also connected with several organizations including the American Legion, the VFW, and the Trenton Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Her life and career offer much to admire and reflect upon.

Families Speak Their Hearts

The event isn’t just about Linda, though. Families honoring their loved ones through this banner program will also take the floor, sharing personal stories and reflections on their heroes. It’s a time of community bonding and heartfelt remembrance.

Banners Along the Avenues

Once the formal program concludes, attendees will have the opportunity to embark on a walking tour to view the 18 banners displayed along Oregon and Maxwell avenues. For those who prefer not to walk, don’t worry; golf cart transportation will be available to ensure everyone can partake in this memorable experience.

The banner program continues to grow as community members express interest in honoring more veterans, contingent on available space. For more information on how to participate, you can reach out to Terry Greenfield and Mike Coleman via email.

The Perfect Day for Reflection

With the sky so beautifully clear and temperatures dipping to a chillier 37°F in the evening, it’s a perfect setting for reflecting on the sacrifices made by many for the freedoms we enjoy. It’s also a great time to interact, pause, and express gratitude to those who’ve served.

If you’re in the Greenwood area, this tribute offers a moment to stand with your neighbors in appreciation and remembrance. It’s not just about banners and speeches; it’s about a community coming together, united in honoring its heroes.

Share your thoughts and stories if you can. Every contribution enriches this heartfelt homage to our veterans.