Veterans and First Responders Jamboree honors heroes, raises $2,300

The Veterans and First Responders Jamboree kicked off at 9 a.m. Sept. 13 with a three-gun volley, a moment of silence and a short speech from organizer Dirk Harkins.

The three-gun volley is traditionally performed at soldiers’ funerals. The custom originated in Europe when battles were paused to remove the dead from the field. Once that was accomplished, three shots were fired into the air to signal the battle could resume.

“Today we’re here remembering 9/11, and we’re here to pay respect and tribute to our past and present heroes of our community,” Harkins said. “You see them here today in their uniforms. Make sure to shake their hands and thank them. I’d like to thank each and every one of you for your dedication and service. This world lately has been crazy. I don’t care what your race is, your political beliefs, you’re an American. So be proud to be an American and be kind to people. Just be kind.”

Sheriff’s deputies, firefighters, EMS and veterans all came out to show support for each other. The national anthem was played, followed by another moment of silence. Harkins played “God Bless the USA” by Lee Greenwood, prompting attendees to hold hands in solidarity as they sang along.

The event offered free breakfast for veterans and their families, provided by the Adena Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary. The Swole Sprint took place soon after the opening ceremony. Vendors began opening around 10:30 a.m. with a wide assortment of goods for sale, including cutting boards, boutique dresses, fall décor and more. Children enjoyed bounce houses, and live music was played throughout the day.

Cadiz Councilman Eric Miller, a member of the Sons of the American Legion, said, “To think of what these guys did for us, to me, it’s an honor to be in the Sons of the American Legion to show them the appreciation that I have for the veterans and first responders for what they do every day. These people put their lives on the line for us, people they don’t even know. I just think it’s an honor to be able to represent them and to support them.”

The event raised $2,300 to support veterans in the coming year. Between the 22 for 22 Walk and the Swole Sprint at the jamboree, participants logged nearly 5,000 miles.

“I want to thank everyone who came out to the 22 for 22 Walk and the jamboree,” Harkins said. “We’re coming back bigger and better next year.”