TOP PHOTO: It was quite the turnout for veterans and their families on Saturday in the gym at First Baptist Church of Jacksboro.

Breakfast was prepared and served by the folks at Apple Blossom Café and Catering of Clinton.

By Charlie Hutson

JACKSBORO, TN (WLAF) – The first Saturday of the month is the day set aside for the veterans appreciation breakfast held at the First Baptist Church of Jacksboro and hosted by the county mayor and commissioners. See the full photo gallery HERE.

Roger McCarty holds up a couple of door prizes as master of ceremonies Jason Deel looks on.

Saturday’s turnout was great with more than 100 veterans and their families coming out for some good food and fellowship. J.D. Realty and Auction of Clinton sponsored this month’s event.

Boy Scout Troop 310 presented the colors and led the Pledge of Allegiance. The troop volunteers every month for the breakfast event.

It was an amazing site to watch this room full of veterans during the prayer and how they responded when the American Flag was presented and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Seeing the veterans remove their caps for prayer, standing tall to salute the flag and that you could hear every word of the Pledge of Allegiance, was most moving.

Good food and fellowship were enjoyed by all.

During the ceremony when the speaker called for a moment of silence to honor those who gave all, veterans were on their feet, caps off, most with heads bowed. A pin could be heard dropped it was so quiet in that moment. Veterans understand the sacrifice, one that has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.

Commissioner Dewayne Gibson and Mayor Jack Lynch (right) along with other commissioners all pitched in to help put out the tables and chairs and put them back after the breakfast.
During the breakfast, commissioners and the mayor carried food and drink to veterans not able to get around so well. The mayor and commissioners agree the breakfast is one of the most fulfilling things they do.

Thank you, Veterans, for your service. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 06/05/2023-6AM)