Photo By Capt. Fernando Ochoa | Brig. Gen. (P) Scottie Carpenter, 311th Expeditionary Sustainment Command commanding...... read more read more
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FULLERTON, Calif. – Brig. Gen. (P) Scottie Carpenter, 311th Expeditionary Sustainment Command commanding general, spoke at the City of Fullerton’s 27th Annual Veterans Day parade and celebration at Hillcrest Park Nov. 11.
Veterans Day is an official U.S. holiday that honors the men and women who have served in the U.S. armed forces. This federal holiday is observed on Nov. 11 of each year.
Carpenter was joined by hundreds of junior ROTC cadets, members of Fullerton’s city council, representatives from the police and fire departments, many former veterans from all five services and the Fullerton American Legion Post 142.
Although it was an overcast day, the weather was perfect for a parade and a day at the park. Once they assembled, the participants marched to the beat of the Fullerton Union High School Marching Band up Harbor Blvd. to Hillcrest Park.
“Veteran’s sacrifices over the years have guaranteed Americans everywhere the right to pursue their own personal dream in peace and safety,” said Carpenter. “I want to thank engaged employers, families and communities around the country for supporting former veterans, current military members and my Army Reserve brethren.”
During his speech, Carpenter recognized the proud veterans who have served in past conflicts. One by one, he asked these service members from World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and the Iraqi and Afghanistan Wars to stand, and as they did the audience burst into applause.
Hillcrest Park was abuzz with activity. Many former veterans and their families filled the stands, but the impressive sight was the hundreds of future veterans that manned the green. Carpenter also recognized these young recruits, knowing that they were the future and next generation of warriors who would protect the United States of America.
On a serious note, Carpenter recounted a recent visit he had made to a veterans home and expressed his disappointment in himself in not contributing more. In a call to duty, he challenged the audience to visit and support veterans organizations. He wanted to inspire others saying, “I haven’t done enough to help these heroes, and I feel that I could do much more. I encourage all of you to visit and support veteran organizations around the United States.”
The stars of the day were the young students that filled the green with freshly pressed uniforms and professionalism. They marched onto the parade field with precision, their leaders shouted out orders and each cadet followed out those orders with pride.
“This event has grown in size each year and we hope that the veterans who participate in it will continue to come year after year,” said Edward Paul, Fullerton American Legion Post 142 adjutant. “We may be a small community, but we have a big heart.”
The event concluded when Brig. Gen. Carpenter handed out two 311th ESC command coins and presented the Outstanding Unit Award to the Troy High School Naval JROTC. The general saluted the remaining JROTC units as they parade by his grandstand.
U.S. President Woodrow Wilson first proclaimed Armistice Day for November 11, 1919, proclaiming it a holiday and marking the of the end of World War I, which was observed on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918.
| Date Taken: | 11.11.2014 |
| Date Posted: | 11.14.2014 11:54 |
| Story ID: | 147869 |
| Location: | FULLERTON, CA, US |
| Web Views: | 59 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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