The annual Veterans Day observance in Newton County had to be moved from Jasper's Bradley Park to the Newton County Senior Activity and Wellness Center Monday morning due to last week's flooding of the park. Newton County Veterans Service Officer Gerald, "Gary" Lamb, thanked senior center director Nickie Henderson for allowing the ceremonies traditionally held on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month to go on as scheduled. He also vowed that the observance would keep that tradition in Newton County for as long as he serves as its veteran's service officer.
This year's observance focused on the service of one individual, First Sgt. Jerry Peeler, a Purple Heart recipient and decorated veteran who served during the conflict in Vietnam. Peeler was most cited for his participation in the Battle of Ia Drang.
The ceremonies included presentation of an Arkansas Legislative Citation presented to Peeler by state Representative Steven Walker, of the 28th District. It came with a U.S. flag that was flown over the state Capitol in his honor.
Lamb, filling in for US Senator John Boozeman, also presented Peeler with a U.S. flag and certificates stating the flag flew over the nation's Capitol.
Mary Ogden, of the Newton County Sewphisticated Scrappy Quilters Club, also made a presentation to Peeler, a handmade quilt.
In his remarks at the end of the ceremonies, Peeler said he did not serve for his own recognition. "It's an honor to have served with "a band of brothers," he said. "No matter how many times we got into battle we took care of each other. No matter your race or creed we all served together."
