Front Royal Pays Tribute to Veterans During 2024 Veterans Day Ceremony

The Giles B. Cook American Legion Post 53 hosted a moving Veterans Day ceremony on Monday, November 11, 2024. The ceremony brought the community together to honor those who have served in the armed forces and their families. Through heartfelt speeches, symbolic tributes, and stirring musical performances, the event highlighted both the sacrifices of veterans and the ongoing need to support them.

The community gathered on the Courthouse lawn to pay tribute to Veterans.

Among the many impactful moments was the speech delivered by guest speaker Skip Rogers, Executive Director of the Able Forces Foundation. A disabled veteran himself, Rogers shared deeply personal reflections on the legacy of service and the challenges veterans face long after they leave the battlefield.

The guest speaker was Skip Rogers, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Able Forces Foundation. Able Forces Foundation is a non-profit founded by a disabled veteran. Its mission is to provide immediate financial assistance to military and veteran families identified in financial crisis by a military base of veteran advocates—photos by Roger Bianchini, Royal Examiner.

Stories of Service and Sacrifice

Rogers began his address with a tribute to his father, a World War II veteran who fought in the Pacific. He described how his father rarely spoke of the war’s horrors but carried emotional scars throughout his life.

“There were so many of them,” Rogers recalled his father saying. “They were so close to us—they were at the end of our rifles.”

Rogers connected this personal story to the shared experiences of countless veterans who, like his father, endured unimaginable challenges but rarely spoke of their pain. “Each war, each age leaves the same scars,” he said. “Some are physical, but many are unseen, hidden, and unspoken.”

The Invisible Wounds of War

Rogers drew attention to the “invisible wounds” that afflict many veterans, including post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety. He also addressed the alarming rate of veteran suicides, a stark reminder of the ongoing mental health crisis in the veteran community.

“Every day, we lose 22 veterans to suicide,” Rogers said, his voice heavy with emotion. “This is a crisis that demands our attention and action. We owe it to them to provide the support they need to heal and thrive.”

He urged the community to advocate for improved mental health care, better job training, and more robust resources for veterans struggling to reintegrate into civilian life.

A Call to the Next Generation

Rogers emphasized the importance of teaching young people about the sacrifices made by veterans, urging schools to incorporate their stories into the curriculum. “When we connect veterans’ experiences to the next generation, we bridge the gap between past and future,” he said.

He praised the young students from local schools who participated in the ceremony and encouraged parents to continue fostering respect and appreciation for those who defend the nation.

“Let us commit to ensuring that no veteran feels forgotten or unappreciated,” Rogers said. “They answered the call for us. Now it’s our turn to answer the call for them.”

Honoring Local Heroes

The ceremony also highlighted two local Medal of Honor recipients, Corporal Larry E. Smedley and Colonel Wesley L. Fox. Post Commander Rick Kinsey shared their stories, describing their courage and dedication as emblematic of the American spirit.

Corporal Smedley, a Vietnam War hero, made the ultimate sacrifice at just 18 years old. Colonel Fox, a decorated veteran of three wars, continued to serve his country as a mentor to young cadets at Virginia Tech.

“These individuals remind us of the selflessness and valor that define our armed forces,” Kinsey said.

Community Tribute

The ceremony included a POW/MIA remembrance led by Sergeant-at-Arms Mark Bauer, a moment of silence during Taps, and stirring musical performances by local school bands and singer-songwriter Jessica Estienne, who performed “God Bless America.”

The audience gave a standing ovation to the veterans present, who make up nearly 10% of Warren County’s population. Kinsey reminded attendees to thank veterans whenever they encounter them, saying, “A simple thank-you can make their day—and yours.”

As Taps were played, organizations representing veterans of all previous conflicts laid a ceremonial wreath at the monument to honor the deceased.

Jess Estienne sang God bless America.

Flags line our Main Street.

A Day of Gratitude

The ceremony concluded with an invitation to an open house luncheon at Post 53, where attendees could view Corporal Smedley’s Medal of Honor citation and continue sharing stories of service and sacrifice.

In a town where veterans are neighbors, friends, and family, the day served as a powerful reminder of the debt owed to those who have worn the uniform.

“Veterans Day is more than a date on the calendar,” Rogers said. “It’s a day to honor, reflect, and act. Let’s ensure that legacy continues—not just today, but every day.”

Enjoy the music from Skyline HS Band, Randolph Macon Academy Band, and Warren County HS Band.