Thanks to troops


Thursday, December 2, 2010
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Photos by Sue Watson

Chris Merrite is cheered as he wins the drawing for a $5,000 swimming pool.

Thanks to troops

By SUE WATSON
Staff Writer

It is getting to be an annual event around this time of year for the troops and families enlisted in the Mississippi National Guard Hernando and Holly Springs units.

Since the first announced deployment of guardsmen from Troop A in Holly Springs to Iraq in the spring of 2005, the troops have been given sendoffs and welcome home parties and now a yearly dinner to thank them for their service. This year the Clydesdale Christmas Store, which sponsors the event, served altogether about 220 individuals including the troops, wives and children. They sat for a catfish dinner and the trimmings prepared by sheriff Kenny Dickerson and his crew.

Classical violinist Donna Wolfe, of Memphis, Tenn., entertained everyone during the meal. Afterward, wives and each guardsman were given gifts to take home in a sort of early Christmas and Thanksgiving holiday celebration all rolled into one.

The Clydesdale Christmas Store volunteers, plus members of the Collins-Hurdle VFW Post 5697 and Ladies Auxiliary (close to 40 in all), helped serve the troops and hand out gifts. Santa was present to listen to the children’s Christmas wishes.

Mississippi’s own magician, Robert Day, of Jackson, put on a show for the families.

Shakinah Clark enjoys her visit with Santa.

“Special thanks to the Clydesdale elves and those who made donations,” said organizer Brenda Luther. “Also thanks to A&B Distributing, Hunter Fan, Dough Boy Pools, VFW, and VFW Ladies Auxiliary, Frank and Vickie Swords, Melissa Shaw, Sandra Aldredge, Barbara Taylor, Daryl Tice, Rep. Tommy Woods, Cousins Express, A2Z Printing, Samstown, Fitzgerald, Goldstrike, Ballys, the men of the Clydesdale cooking crew, and sheriff Kenny Dickerson. We apologize if we failed to thank anyone.”

Dickerson, in brief remarks before the troops, ended with a quote that touches all hearts.

“Freedom isn’t free; just ask any soldier or their family,” he said. “God bless our service men and women.”

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