Promoting the history of veterans continues to be a prime objective for community members.

Surrounded by the names of Carter County and Elizabethton servicemen and women who sacrificed their time and lives for their country, residents, officials and veterans met at the Veterans Memorial Memorial in Historic Downtown Elizabethton for the city’s annual Veterans Day Celebration on Saturday, Nov. 11.

Led by City Mayor Pro-Tem and Walk of Honor/War Memorial Oversight Committee Chair Bill Carter, Saturday’s ceremony featured a variety of activities to recognize the actions of veterans. Ranging from a rousing rendition of the national by community songstress Loretta Bowers, a 21-gun volley provided by American Legion Post #49 Honor Guard and a presentation of the “Empty Table” – a solemn tradition performed at military presentations to remember those unable to be in attendance.

World War II veteran Earl Ellis was also commended for his efforts and provided with recognition by Robert Barnes during the ceremony.

Ever humble, Ellis said he appreciated the acknowledgement and spent the conclusion of the ceremony mingling with attendees.

While taking time to remember the actions of many, Jim Cross, Northeast Tennessee area chair of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), spent time providing information about the actions the National Guard and reservists perform for the country, from the past to the present, and what is ahead for groups for the future.

ESGR is a program offered through the Department of Defense and was established in the early 1970s to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve Component Service members.

Cross said it is important for reservists and members of the Guard to stay in contact with their employer while going through their service.

The group of the armed service provides a sizeable service to the country to this day. Currently, 32,654 reservists are on duty. Of the soldiers currently deployed in Afghanistan, 7,500 are guard and reservists.

Cross stressed the importance of continually supporting servicemen and women and businesses to show support for their employees that are in service. ESGR recently provided Grindstaff Motors with an award, after being nominated by employees for their support to the armed forces.

With Saturday’s celebration being recognized across the world, Cross added the day is important to encourage the youth about hard work and sacrifice.