By Kay S. Pedrotti ’At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month …’ in 1918, the horrors of World War I on Europe’s western front came to an end with the signing of the armistice between the Allies and Germany. The United States now celebrates ‘Armistice Day’ as Veterans Day, honoring not only the war dead but also retired veterans and those who died of other causes. Barnesville’s annual Veterans Day observance is planned for 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 11, at the memorial in front of the library. Hosted by local American Legion Martin Moore Post 25, the event will feature guest speaker Dan Rainey, a retired U.S. Navy captain with an impressive career record. A 1961 graduate of Gordon Military High School, Rainey moved back to Barnesville in recent years when he married Linda Milam Butler. Rainey had worked pumping gas for her father, Henry Milam, at Milam Gulf. Bob Richardson, Legion post commander, will introduce Rainey. Captain Rainey was Commanding Officer of Air-Antisubmarine Squadron Thirty Seven embarked onboard USS Enterprise. He was also Commander, Carrier Air Wing Eight embarked on USS Nimitz. Later he was Commanding Officer, USS Savannah and USS Kitty Hawk. His naval awards include three legion of merit medals, three meritorious service medals, two combat air medals, Vietnam service medal and multiple unit awards. During his career, he amassed over 700 carrier landings on eight different aircraft carriers. Junior Hamrick, commander of Marion Matthews Post 6542 Veterans of Foreign Wars, will read the list of deceased veterans, some of whom will be the sons of Gold Star Mothers present. A luncheon for veterans and their families will be held at the Civic Center after the ceremony. ’We encourage everyone to come to the ceremony in support of our veterans and in memory of those who died to secure our freedom,’ said Richardson. The elementary school held its Veterans Day program Friday, Nov. 8, at 9:30 a.m. in the cafeteria. There were special guest speakers, musical numbers and words of tribute honoring all veterans. All veterans and current service men and women are asked to join students in celebrating military accomplishments and devote a special time to recognize and remember service members military. The high school JROTC will hold its Veterans Day program at 9 a.m. Monday, Nov. 11, at the fine arts center. Again, the community and all veterans are invited to attend the gathering. The guest speaker will be Richard V. Hamilton III, MBA, MHA. Gordon State College’s National Roll Call Ceremony starts at 2 p.m. Nov. 11 on Lambdin Green, amid all the miniature flags.
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