EAST LIMESTONE COUNTY– “Thank you for your service,” is a common phrase heard in the United States. Americans are proud of our veterans and are eager to show them how much we appreciate them.
Unfortunately, that was not always the case. When the United States Vietnam Veterans came home many of these brave men and women were shunned and ridiculed. In recent years, our country has begun to embrace these brave men and women, recognizing that is time to heal and show our proper respect for our Vietnam Veterans.
In 2019, March 29 was officially designated as Vietnam Veterans Day. On March 29, 2022, the country will finally give these American heroes the “welcome home” they deserve with the inaugural National Vietnam Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony.
The East Limestone Marching Indians, from Athens, Alabama, has been selected to represent the state of Alabama in the National Vietnam Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony. The Limestone County School Board of Education approved the trip at their April 13, 2021, meeting.
Band Director Jennifer Janzen
The commemoration events will take place in Honolulu, Hawaii, the second home to many Vietnam Veterans. According to the selection committee, Hawaii was the entry point to the United States for most Vietnam Veterans returning from war and continues to hold a special place in their hearts and minds. The committee also states it is only fitting that Hawaii continues to welcome our Veterans as the official home of the National Vietnam Veterans Day Parade.
East Limestone Band Director Jennifer Janzen was thrilled when she learned of the nomination.
“I am so excited for our band to be able to represent the state of Alabama and honor these Veterans,” said Janzen. “We are calling on the community to help get us there by supporting our upcoming fundraisers.”
The band will kick off fundraising efforts for this trip this upcoming weekend. On June 5 and June 6 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m at S&J Produce Farms, the band will be grilling hamburgers and hot dogs and have a shaved ice machine. The band encourages everyone to come out, bring the kids, support a local high school band’s trip, and grab all the fresh produce you need.
The band will also have several fundraisers leading up to the trip. Stay tuned to the band’s social media accounts and website (www.eastlimestoneband.com) for more information. For anyone interested in donating to the trip account, visit the PayPal link here or donations can be mailed to the school at 15641 East Limestone Road, Athens, Alabama, 35613 made to the attention of Jennifer Janzen. Donors are asked to put Hawaii in the memo of the check.
Media Release/Blake Williams Communications
