Veterans Day Program at NACC with Chief Master: Get ready for a special treat at the Veterans Day Program at Northeast Alabama Community College on Thursday, Nov. 9. Chief Master Eric M. Dudash, a special guest speaker, will be joined by none other than Phantom, the Service Dog.
This community-wide event, held in the Tom Bevill Lyceum starting at 10 a.m., promises an inviting atmosphere. A reception follows, and everyone is not just welcome but is extended a heartfelt invitation, especially local veterans and their families.
Dudash, who retired from the United States Air Force on Dec. 1, 2018, after an impressive 30-year career, brings a wealth of experience from every conflict since Desert Shield and Storm to Iraq and Afghanistan. His engagements include daring feats like hostage rescue and drug interdiction.
Phantom, the German Shepherd born on Dec. 7, 2019, and donated to Warrior Freedom Service Dogs, accompanies Dudash to mentor fellow veterans. These incredible dogs are a lifeline for combat-wounded veterans facing challenges with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
From passing the initial evaluation at six weeks to providing nine service tasks, Phantom and Dudash form a certified team, offering support for nightmares, anxiety, and more. They’re not just battle buddies; they’re a symbol of resilience and camaraderie.
Dudash, with a Master of Arts in Education, resides in Menton with his wife, Barbara, and their three children. As a Bronze Legacy member of the Dekalb County VFW Post 3128 and VFW State of Alabama Jr. Vice Commander, Dudash has earned recognition as one of the Top 20 Community Leaders in Dekalb County. He’s also a recipient of the Spirit of the Eagle Award from the Boy Scouts of America/Alabama, named one of Liberty Learnings Super Citizens, and honored as the 2022 Governor of Alabama Veteran of the Year.
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Dudash and Phantom are active members of the Fort Payne Patriots Park Board, taking their inspiring story to classrooms and businesses around the state. Their talks focus on teamwork, resilience, and servant leadership.
Recognized as a Military Friendly School with silver status, NACC’s Student Veteran Association advocates for the challenges and needs of student veterans and their dependents, building awareness within the college and community.
Our Reader’s Queries
Will Veterans Day be observed on Monday in 2023?
In 2023, Veterans Day will land on a Saturday, which is when it’s scheduled to occur. However, officially, the holiday is always observed on November 11, no matter what day of the week it falls on. This information comes straight from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Which president is responsible for it being called Veterans Day?
On May 26, 1954, Eisenhower, a fellow Kansan, gave the official seal to the bill. Eight and a half years had passed since Weeks organized the original Armistice Day event for all veterans. Congress made changes to the bill on June 1, 1954, swapping out “Armistice” for “Veterans,” and it has been called Veterans Day ever since.
What is appropriate to say on Veterans Day?
Deeply grateful for your service and sacrifice. Thank you for your selfless dedication! I acknowledge the numerous sacrifices that come with your service, and I express my gratitude to you and your family each day. My heart is filled with an immense amount of gratitude for our veterans, and words alone cannot convey the depth of my appreciation.
What’s the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day?
Veterans Day and Memorial Day both pay tribute to the U.S. military, but they serve distinct purposes. Veterans Day often means a bonus day off before the holiday rush, while Memorial Day marks the kickoff to summer.