Ex-Marine, Stuart Brooks, main speaker Veterans' Day Service in Colquitt was well attended and very meaningful in spite of the rains.

The November 11, 2009, Veterans Day services were held at the Gerald Grow Post 165 American Legion Building.

Post Commander Jim East read a proclamation from Gov. Sonny Perdue.

Colquitt Mayor Jerry Chapman welcomed the packed house to the annual ceremony.

VFW Post 6046 Commander Gerald Jenkins gave an inspiring talk on the POW/MIA Flag and what it means to real Americans.

Chaplain Glenn Sheffield gave the invocation.

Commander East then led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, after which the National Anthem was played.

Ben Johnson then played the branch of service recognitions as those who served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard stood as their branch song was played.

Commander East then read an unknown writer's rendition of "Freedom Isn't Free." He then introduced the featured speaker, former U.S. Marine from 2002- 2007, Stuart Brooks.

Brooks gave some history of Veterans' Day. He told of how today, the solider is portrayed as a tall, muscular, super-human who takes on the bad guys, shrugs off bullets like raindrops and emerges unscathed. He said it isn't that way. In reality, heroes are short, or skinny; they are people who live and work right beside you.

"Countless men and women have shown unmatched bravery when, in the moment, it just seemed like the right thing to do. To me, simply saying, '"I will answer the call, I will go,' is bravery at its finest," Stuart stated.

"Along with all the veterans, I would like to take time to remember unmentioned heroes as well, the moms and dads, wives and children who stood faithfully by and supported our men with prayer and hope. They are heroes just as those who served," he continued.

He told of the legacy he grew up with, like pride in being a part of something bigger than yourself.

"This legacy is what drove me to return the thanks and enlist. It was an honor to give back to you," Brooks said.

He ended this most moving talk with a line from President Kennedy's Inauguration that is not as well known as other quotes: "Let every nation know, whether it wishes as well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, support any friend, and oppose any foe in order to assure the survival and success of liberty."

A memorial wreath was brought forward to be placed on the Veterans Memorial on the courthouse square by Mr. and Mrs. Amos George.

TAPS was played by Ben Johnson, and Cohen McKenzie gave the benediction.