Alexandria, La. (November 11, 2025) — The Alexandria VA Health Care System hosted its annual Veterans Day ceremony in Building 8 Auditorium. The event began at 10 a.m. and brought together veterans, civic leaders, and families to honor all who served.
JROTC units representing the Air Force, Marine Corps, and Army, along with cadets from the Louisiana Youth Challenge Program, participated in the ceremony. Veterans and community organizations from across Central Louisiana joined to pay tribute.
Tammie Arnold, Public Affairs Officer, served as Mistress of Ceremonies. The Pineville High School Army JROTC, under the direction of Gerard A. Abair Sr. (Ret.), presented the colors. Chaplain Michele Williams offered the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by James Thomas, U.S. Army veteran and Compensated Work Therapy Ambassador.
Peter C. Dancy Jr., Director of the Alexandria VA Health Care System and U.S. Army (Ret.), welcomed guests. Pineville Mayor Joe Bishop shared greetings, followed by Louisiana Representative Mike Johnson, who thanked veterans for their service and sacrifice.
The program featured essay readings by Kallie Laborde, a seventh grader at Poland Junior High, and Hannah Flynn, a ninth grader at Bolton Academy. Both reflected on freedom and patriotism through the eyes of America’s youth.
Community Living Center resident
Mr. Curtis Graham, U.S. Army veteran and Community Living Center resident, was honored for his years of service. Musical selections were performed by Dave Duplissey, and Chaplain Williams offered the benediction.
Sponsors included Veterans Canteen Service, Coca-Cola Bottling Company, VALEX Federal Credit Union, Cenla Vets, and the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association LA Chapter 6-6.
The ceremony concluded with a message from President Harry S. Truman, reminding attendees:
“Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.”
This annual observance reaffirmed Central Louisiana’s deep respect for those who have served and the enduring cost of freedom.
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