Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Images by Ryan McGill
On November 8, Bethel Baptist Church of Dora, Alabama, held its seventh annual Veterans Program, honoring those who served in the armed forces. Each year, this program brings together veterans from the community for a heartfelt tribute to their service.
The program, which has become a cherished tradition at Bethel Baptist, originated through the dedication of program coordinator Betty Cordell.
Cordell, who previously organized a veterans program at West Jefferson Elementary School, saw an opportunity to continue recognizing veterans after the school decided to discontinue its event.
“My father was a World War II veteran, and I’ve always appreciated veterans,” Cordell shared. “The program already existed when I was teaching at West Jefferson; another teacher started it, but when she took a principal position at another school, I took it over. Seven years ago, we moved it here to Bethel Baptist.”
The event included an introduction of each veteran present, the presentation of the symbolic “Missing Man Table” by Linda and Eric Roloff, and patriotic songs performed by church members. A highlight of the program was the Marine Corps League from Birmingham’s reenactment of the Raising of the Flag on Iwo Jima. James Quakenbush also performed “Taps” on the bugle, closing the ceremony with a moving tribute. Veterans and their guests were then invited to enjoy a meal provided by the church.
Each year, Bethel Baptist’s Veterans Program unites the community in appreciation of those who have served and provides an opportunity for families to honor their loved ones. WL
