Veterans Day Marked in Stephens County

Stephens County honors Veterans Day.

The county’s annual observance took place Wednesday at the VFW Post on West Savannah Street in Toccoa.

Organizers moved the ceremony inside because recent rains made the courthouse lawn too soft to support folding chairs for the program.

Speaking Wednesday was Stephens County High School JROTC Commander David Priatko.

He said his focus is not just on what America can do for its veterans, but on what veterans can still do for America.

“Most of us have long since hung up our military uniforms and moved on to other endeavors in our lives,” said Priatko. “I believe we still have much to offer our nation in the way of service that truly honors all veterans, both past and present.”

Priatko said there are four main things veterans can do.

First, he said veterans need to tell their stories.

“We all have a compelling story to tell,” said Priatko. “We must use our personal experiences to talk about the benefits of military life, the value of service to our nation, the camaraderie, and how military service made us better men, woman, and better citizens.”

Next, Priatko said veterans must work to advance their political causes and be a voice for themselves on issues of importance to them.

He said veterans can be their own best advocates.

“Veterans’ benefits were established for a reason,” said Priatko. “We must ensure they do not fall victim to political agenda, budget shortfalls, and just plain general ignorance of general veterans’ issues.”

Priatko said the third thing veterans can do is to continue carrying on the sacred duty of protecting the Constitution.

He said the final thing veterans must do is engage with and invest in young people.

“If we are to remain a great nation, we must prepare the next generation to become responsible citizens willing to make the sacrifices necessary to continue our way of life,” said Priatko.

Priatko said it has been a privilege for him to serve in the Armed Forces and serve the nation.

Wednesday’s Veterans Day observance was sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4346, American Legion Post 104, and Marine Corps League Currahee Mountain Detachment 1303.