“These are our true heroes.”

Those were the words of State Rep. John Holsclaw during a special flag raising ceremony to honor veterans at the Carter County Soldiers’ Monument Tuesday afternoon.

County employees, elected officials, veterans and members of the Rolling Thunder Tennessee Chapter 4 gathered on the courthouse lawn to pay tribute to the veterans of the community.

During the ceremony, Carter County Mayor Leon Humphrey spoke of the bravery and dedication of the nation’s veterans.

“As Americans, we owe a tremendous amount of gratitude to our veterans,” Humphrey said. “During peace and war, they have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to safeguarding the principals upon which our nation was founded.”

“Freedom comes at an extremely high price — it is paid for by the courage of those who are willing to fight for what they believe in,” he continued. “The greatness of America is found in the bravery and heroism of men and women who stand strong in the face of oppression and conflict. They ignite the enduring spirit of our nation and strengthen the unity of the American people with their resolve for freedom, justice, and democracy.”

When Holsclaw spoke to those gathered, he encouraged everyone present to find the time to thank a veteran for their service and their sacrifice.

“These are the true heroes. We enjoy a lot of freedoms and get to live our lives the way we choose because of these men,” Holsclaw said. “All gave some, and some gave all. These are our true heroes.”

“I want everyone here, and I would love to see everyone in this county to take the time out this week to go thank a veteran for their service and for what they have done for us,” Holsclaw continued. “Please take time this week to go thank a veteran.”

Members of the Rolling Thunder Tennessee Chapter 4 raised an American flag and a POW/MIA flag at each of the four corners of the Carter County Soldiers’ Monument as Taps played.

Humphrey thanked the Rolling Thunder members for “taking the lead” in organizing the flag raising ceremony.