The Alexander City Outlook

Hometown heroes spoke at the second annual Veterans Day Program in Goodwater Monday.

“This community has seen changes good and bad,” said Ret. Lt. Cmdr. Eric Thomas. “It may be a small town, but no matter where we go we’re proud to say we’re from here. Goodwater is just that – good.”

Thomas, a Goodwater High School graduate, recently retired from the U.S. Navy after 30 years. He shared insights with the crowd of how his service had impacted his life.

“I truly saw the world,” Thomas said. “I visited 25 countries and none were more exciting, more rewarding than this one. There is no better place than the home of the free and land of the brave.”

Capt. Anthony Simmons, another Goodwater graduate, also served as a guest speaker. Simmons challenged the community to not only be trailblazers but to keep paths and trails open.

“We have to keep trails open,” Simmons said. “We can’t take what we learned in the past for granted.”

Simmons said he believes the way to do this is through seven C’s: character, commitment, competence, courage, conifdence, communicating and community.

Lt. Col Anthony Kyles also spoke at the Veterans Day program to thank all veterans and their families for their service.

“You have served your country well,” Kyles said. “Some people never understand how many sacrifices are made serving. This isn’t just a job; it becomes a sacrifice. Families, we appreciate your support – without you we wouldn’t be able to do what we do.”