TUPELO, Miss. (WTVA) -- City leaders and members of the United States Military joined together for a special tribute to veterans by making an enhancement to Veterans Park in honor of those who have served.
"There is no more important human assets in our community than our veterans and their families, to be able to continue to grow this park in honor and memory of them," Tupelo Mayor Jack Reed Jr. said. "Our goal is to have Veterans Park as the finest memorial celebration to veterans in the state of Mississippi."
With the dedication of a new pavillion, current military personnel say it's wonderful to be able to recognize all veterans who have served honorably over the years.
"[We especially remember] those from World War I, World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam veterans as well as our current veterans from the global War on Terror," said Col. Trent Kelly, deputy commander of the 168th Engineer Brigade. "[And we can't forget] our greatest generation, the World War II generation."
Men and women who are veterans said it takes commitment for those who want the United States to be great.
"This great nation was achieved by a cost and the cost is the lives of men and the sacrifice and selflessness of all those who served in our military," adds Kelly. "[Those in the military] understand what integrity, honor and duty and make those things a way of life."
With the challenges the country faces in modern times, many say there are so many important lessons the next generation needs to learn and be thankful for.
"Nothing is free without sacrifice and it's very important to keep our freedoms that we have in our country today," added Sheila Kelly, Saltillo resident.
Each year the city is honoring veterans by making the necessary enhancements to help beautify Veterans Park.
