Heroes honored at ceremony

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October 20, 2009

Anonymous The Dalton Daily Citizen Tue Oct 20, 2009, 10:47 PM EDT

To the editor:

Dalton paid tribute to those who have fought for and continue to maintain the freedom and safety of our country and community. The Salute to Today’s Heroes was at the Wink Theater, and it was a very moving experience.

Brig. Gen. Maria Britt honored this community by serving as the special guest. Gen. Britt has accomplished so much in her long career that it would be impossible to list all of it. She is a very prominent member of the Georgia Army National Guard and we were extremely fortunate that she accepted the invitation. I greatly appreciate her sacrifice in spending her Friday night here. I was able to spend some time with her before the program and know of no one that I have ever been more impressed with or grateful to have had the opportunity to share a conversation with. I will never forget that very emotional conversation or the continuation of those emotions as she lit the candle in memory of our beloved soldiers who have given their all for us. Some recent losses have been very difficult for both of us. Neither I, nor all the citizens of Dalton can ever convey adequate appreciation for her visit.

I would like to offer appreciation to Mr. John Paul Bledsoe and some of our local veteran heroes. Mr. Bledsoe readily accepted the request to provide the military flags and also to secure the service of our distinguished veterans. Mr. Bledsoe and Mr. Jim Chamblee worked together to get the flags mounted onto the poles used in the ceremony. All these contributions to the program allowed us to honor and offer respect to those who have honorably served our country. These veterans have served and sacrificed during the danger and many difficulties faced during wartimes.We can never show them enough gratitude for all they have done and continue to do for us.

I would also like to thank Varnell Police Chief Lyle Grant and the two Varnell deputies who attended the event. Along with their fellow officers with the Varnell Police Department, they are to be commended for their excellent service. There are several officers there who have served our country and are now serving their community. Chief Grant has served our country, our community, and now is also serving one of his toughest roles by being the parent of a deployed soldier serving in Afghanistan with our local Charlie Troop. Chief Grant, you have my respect and heartfelt gratitude for all you have and continue to do for our country and our community. You and your deputies are to be commended for your remarkable service for us. Thank you.

Many other heroes who serve us with the Dalton Police and Fire Departments as well as the Whitfield County law enforcement and fire departments were represented by their leaders. All officials who participated in the program are to be greatly commended for their valuable and honorable service for our community. All who participated in the program and also the many behind the scenes helped to turn some great ideas into a great night. Thank you to everyone who participated during and before the event.

We are surrounded by true heroes in this community. To those currently serving in our military, those who have already given their service, and to our law enforcement and firefighters, we can never thank you enough for all your sacrifices in allowing us to remain a free and safe country and community. I appreciate you.

Judy McNelley

Rocky Face

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