Honoring those who served

HAMMONTON—To honor is defined as regarding one or a group of individuals with great respect. In a ceremony that exemplified the definition of honoring veterans, the Tri-Vets of Hammonton hosted a Veteran’s Day Ceremony on November 11 at the Hammonton Middle School auditorium.

While several individuals spoke from the stage, the heart of the evening was best captured in the address given by guest speaker and veteran Adam Erskine. Erskine has been with the Atlantic County Sheriff’s office for 23 years. He spent eight years in the United States Marine Corps as a field radio operator. Erskine is a combat veteran who served during Operation Just Cause in Panama and Operation Desert Storm. He served in the Air National Guard, at the 177th Tactical Wing in information management for six years.

Erskine lives in Hammonton with his wife Helen. He has two daughters and four grandchildren.

The following is the address Erskine gave to the audience emphasizing the importance of the day, our veterans and the responsibility of all Americans.

“Ladies and gentlemen, honored guests, fellow veterans and cherished friends.

“As I stand before you today on this solemn and powerful occasion, Veterans Day, I am both humbled and honored to share my thoughts with you as a fellow veteran. Today, we gather not just to remember but to celebrate and to reflect upon the dedication and sacrifices made by those who donned the uniform and answered the call of duty.

“When I enlisted, I was driven by a sense of purpose, a desire to protect the freedoms we hold dear and a commitment to serve not only my country, but each and every one of you. In the heat of combat, I learned the true meaning of courage, resilience and camaraderie. I fought alongside brave men and women who, like me, were willing to lay down their lives for something greater than themselves. Each of us shared a bond forged in the fire of adversity—an unbreakable connection that transcends time and distance.

“Today, as we reflect on the sacrifices made by our brothers and sisters in arms, we must remember not only those who served in conflicts abroad, but also those veterans who have faced challenges upon their return home. The battle does not end when the last shot is fired; many of us continue to fight on unfamiliar terrain—the terrain of our hearts and minds. It’s a fight for acceptance, for understanding, for healing.

“As a combat veteran, I witness the profound impact that camaraderie and community can make in navigating the aftermath of service. We must continue to uplift one another, to share our stories and to provide support to those who carry the weight of their experiences. It is our responsibility as a nation to ensure that veterans receive the care, resources and opportunities they deserve.

“Let us also remember our fallen heroes—those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Their bravery and selflessness will never be forgotten. Each name on that long list represents a life full of potential, aspirations and dreams. As we honor their memories today, let us commit ourselves to ensuring that their sacrifice was not in vain.

“To the families of veterans, your love and support are the unsung heroes of this story.

Your strength, resilience, and devotion often carry us through the toughest moments. Today, we honor you as well, for you have shared in our battles and celebrated our successes. In conclusion, let us come together in gratitude, in remembrance, and in unity. Whether you wore the uniform, stood by a veteran, or are here to offer your respect, let today be a reminder of the bonds we share and the duty we have to support one another. Let us carry the spirit this day in our hearts, not just today, but every day, as we strive for a future of peace, understanding, and respect.

“Thank you, and may we always remember, honor, and support our veterans.”