Over 300 Guests Honor Nations’ Veterans at Dodona Manor
A beautiful fall day greeted a proud and patriotic crowd of military veterans, honored guests, families and friends who gathered at Dodona Manor to pay tribute to our nation’s veterans on November 11.
The George C. Marshall International Center’s 19th annual Veterans Day commemoration ceremonies opened with the presentation of colors by VFW Post 1177 and Boy Scout Troop 998 and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a rousing performance of the national anthem by The Briar Woods High School Band, Juliana MacDowell and Michael Gauvreau.
Chairman of the Marshall Center Board of Directors Tom Greenspon, Leesburg Mayor Kelly Burk and Loudoun County Board of Supervisors Chair-At-Large Phyllis Randall welcomed the distinguished gathering of guests, which included representatives from Boulder Crest, VFW Post 1177 and American Legion Post 34.
Brigadier General Adam C. Volant (U.S. Army, Ret.) delivered a stirring keynote tribute to America’s veterans. Volant enlisted in the military at age 17 and over 35 years was promoted 11 times, including his last promotion to brigadier general.
“We all each of us stand on the shoulder of giants and their legacy – people before us who did difficult things,” said Volant. “In veterans, they represent that very idea. Their service is essential to our freedom and our way of life. We are indeed grateful for their sacrifice. But it's also the veteran who contributes to the society even after they leave the uniform.”
“We should gladly celebrate that truth at the home of General George Catlett Marshall that is emblematic of that very concept of serving. Veterans return with experience and new insights that make them effective leaders, innovative solution providers and tireless workers,” Volant concluded.
The ceremony closed with a benediction by Rev. Chad T. Martin of Leesburg’s Saint James' Episcopal Church, followed by a performance of “God Bless America.”
The George C. Marshall International Center wishes to express its sincere gratitude to its 2023 Veterans Day sponsors, supporters and friends, including: Monoc Securities, Neo Systems LLC, EIT 2.0, Dewberry, 155 Strategies, Bank of Clarke and Fortinet Federal, Bank of Clarke, Rehau, Dr. Edgar Hatrick III, McCandlish & Lillard, Falcon’s Landing, Presidential Bank, Shirley Pearson, Fluor, Loudoun County Public Library, Bear Chase Brewing, LMI, Hypori and Toth Financial.