SANFORD - Members of the Central Carolina Community College community gathered next to a field of American flags on Thursday morning to commemorate Veterans Day and honor all who served the nation as members of the armed forces.

CCCC's Veterans Day Ceremony is an annual event that returned this year to its familiar outdoor location under the flagpole after being held virtually last fall because of the pandemic.

Richard Biggs, a veteran who has been an organizer of the college ceremony for the last five years, shared some personal stories about his heartwarming interaction with other veterans and urged everyone to use this day to reconnect with former service members from all walks of life. "The message here is, reach out to family members and friends that are veterans," he said, "and tell them how much you care about them."

CCCC President Dr. Lisa M. Chapman provided welcoming remarks. With his consent, Chapman brought her husband's military dog tags to the ceremony and showed them as she thanked all veterans and emphasized the price many pay for their service. Not only for those who give their lives for their country, but for all who experience any number of other difficulties, including extended separation from loved ones.

But this year's ceremony was not just about remembering veterans. It was also was about helping them. Keynote speaker Robert Johnson, a regional manager from the North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, explained a large portfolio of services available to help veterans, especially those who have a service-related disability.

Referring occasionally to the department's "Resource Guide," a printed document also available online, the retired U.S. Army sergeant major described a "treasure trove of services" -- everything from help getting medical treatment to scholarships for wartime veterans to property tax relief for disabled veterans and even state-issued military and veteran license plates.

The 45-minute formal program also included flag-raising and flag-folding ceremonies performed by cadets from the Army ROTC battalion based at Campbell University and concluded with cupcakes provided by the college office administering Upward Bound and military-affiliated initiatives.

Dr. Jen Servi-Roberts, who directs that office, said the CCCC Veterans Day Ceremony is an important way for the college to recognize its own veterans and show others across the community that the college supports them and offers an educational opportunity after military service to continue a rewarding life.

Before he concluded his keynote remarks, Johnson captured the spirit of the event, asking people to show their support for veterans because of what they have done for all Americans. "Embrace this day and embrace the days to come on Veterans Day," he said. "Because the reason why you're standing here today is that some sailor, some airman, some Marine, some soldier, some Coast Guard has given their lives for you."

For more information on Central Carolina Community College - which is dedicated to providing pathways to achievable dreams, visit www.cccc.edu.