July 21, 2025

Veterans Appreciation Day Celebrated in Greenwood

News Summary

The eighth annual Veterans Appreciation Day was held at the Greenwood County Veterans Center, honoring veterans with free resources and meals. The event showcased community support for veterans and included participation from local lawmakers and organizations. Attendees expressed gratitude for the services available, and awards were given in recognition of those dedicated to veteran support. The celebration will continue with a Hall of Heroes event, further emphasizing the importance of appreciating veterans and their contributions.

Greenwood, South Carolina – The eighth annual Veterans Appreciation Day took place at the Greenwood County Veterans Center, offering a wide array of free resources, food, and giveaways to veterans and their families. The event aimed to honor those who have served in the military, ensuring that they have access to essential services and support within the community.

The event attracted veterans from various generations, including individuals who served in Vietnam and the Gulf War. Attendees expressed gratitude for the community’s support and the resources made available. Meals for the occasion were generously donated by local businesses, with Chick-fil-A providing the main meals and Howard’s on Main supplying desserts. This contributed to a friendly and welcoming atmosphere that encouraged human connections and fostered camaraderie among veterans and community members.

U.S. Navy veteran Wyatt Loftis attended the event, acknowledging the critical role the center plays in helping veterans access available resources. His experience highlights the impact of community efforts in supporting veterans and their families. More than a dozen vendors and organizations participated, offering gifts and services tailored to veterans’ needs.

Rosalind Burke, director of Greenwood’s Veterans Services office, along with office manager Kayla Starnes, played significant roles in organizing the event. Their continued dedication was recognized when they received an award presented by a veterans group from Anderson County in appreciation of their commitment to local veterans.

Several local lawmakers were present, including State Representative John McCravy and State Senator Billy Garrett. Their attendance demonstrated bipartisan support for veterans’ issues. Senator Garrett underscored the importance of expanded property tax relief for veterans and their surviving spouses, while Representative Daniel Gibson engaged with vendors and veterans to discuss ways to enhance services and support.

The Greenwood County Veterans Center, recognized as a model for veteran services across South Carolina, provides an extensive array of support for veterans from all counties and states. Since its inception in 2017, Burke has led the Veterans Appreciation Day event, which seeks to connect veterans with the resources they need and foster a spirit of collaboration and appreciation in the community.

The appreciation day is part of a wider initiative to promote veteran services and support within the community. This year, a Hall of Heroes celebration is scheduled for August 23 at the Greenwood Performing Arts Center, which will continue to honor veterans and their contributions to society.

Overall, the eighth annual Veterans Appreciation Day served as a testament to the community’s commitment to give back to those who have sacrificed for their country. With laughter and heartfelt interactions present throughout the gathering, the event affirmed the significance of gratitude and support for veterans and their families.