Story and photos by Patricia A. Douglas
Post 911 Public Affairs Coordinator

Members of the Ryan Winslow Post 911 Family attended many 2023 Veterans Day events in the community. The American Legion was the host veteran service organization for the 76th anniversary of Veterans Day, so the American Legion Vice Commander Charlie Aucoin was in the area for the occasion.

At the Hoover Thank a Vet Program on Nov. 3, two members of the Post 911 Family were recognized for their service to the community. Post 911 Sons of the American Legion (SAL) member Roy Brook, the 2023 Freedom Award recipient, received a flag that flew over the Alabama State Capitol. Brian Crawford was also one of the 2023 veteran honorees, receiving a U.S. flag and a certificate from Gov. Kay Ivey.

Vestavia hosted the Salute to Veterans: Honoring Those Who Have Served on Nov. 5. This family-friendly event included activities for children, booths featuring information for veterans and entertainment. The keynote speaker, David Burford, is a member of Post 911.

Aucoin paid a visit to Hoover Tactical Firearms and Post 911 on Nov. 9. Commander Lynn Thomas told Aucoin about the many community activities of the post. There was a brief reception so Aucoin could meet with the many members who attended.

At the National Veterans Awards Dinner on Nov. 10, three members of Ryan Winslow Post 911 were recognized for their achievements. Bob Barefield was recognized as the American Legion Department of Alabama Veteran of the Year. Brian Crawford received the Soaring Eagle Award for his work as co-founder of the Central Alabama Veterans Collaborative. Linda DeMarco was recognized as Veteran of the Year for the Military Officers Association of America.

And for the big event, The American Legion hosted at the 76th annual National Veterans Day Parade on Nov. 11. Aucoin joined members of the Department of Alabama leadership at the front of the parade. In addition to Post 911, seven other posts – 107, 137, 171, 205, 255, 267, 338 – also had entries in the parade.