Celebration held in Gibson County for veterans

HUMBOLDT, Tenn. – A Gibson County city celebrated those who make America the home of the brave.

The City of Humboldt hosted their annual Veteran’s Day Celebration Thursday morning.

The event started with a parade down Main Street, followed by a program at Magnolia Manor. 

One of the city’s oldest veterans was in attendance as well.

“Well, you know, it’s very important for us to honor our veterans. Today we’ve done that. Here we got a veteran of our city, 98-years-old, fought in World War II. It was pretty cool. He had his 1943 Humboldt High School sweater on today as well,” said Humboldt Mayor Marvin Sikes.

His name is Whitley Thompson, and he made the whole walk during the parade waving to everyone in attendance.

Mayor Sikes talked about all of the important events that happen in Humboldt every year and how this is one that is incredibly important to the city.

“For the city, let’s not forget our veterans. We have all kinds of things that happen here in Humboldt every year. You know, the Strawberry Festival, Fall Festival, all the stuff. But let’s not forget our veterans. The city’s got many veterans, men and women. We’ve got a state veterans home here that has all of our veterans there for care,” Sikes said.

Jason Robetson was the guest speaker at the event.

He was born in Vietnam and was orphaned during the war. He was later brought to the United States and was adopted.

He spoke about how much love he has for the country and how he is thankful for the veterans.

“It’s just mind blowing how awesome this country is to him. He started one place and he’s ended here,” Sikes said.

There were many veterans in attendance who were honored as well. 

Following the program, everyone went to Humboldt High School where the program was held once again.

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