U.S. Naval Reserve Commander Jordan Ferris was the guest speaker Tuesday at White Hall’s annual Veterans Day commemoration.
About 125 attended the event, held on the White Hall Museum grounds at 9009 Dollarway Road.
“It was the only branch of the military that started in a bar,” Ferris said.
Ferris didn’t limit his remarks to one branch of the military, but recognized the various branches for their service and dedication to the country.
“To our veterans, we have the deepest gratitude and will forever be indebted to you,” Ferris said.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Before introducing Ferris, White Hall Deputy Mayor Jeff May also thanked all military veterans for their service.
“Today, we gather to honor and celebrate the brave men and women who have served our country with unwavering dedication and sacrifice,” May said.
Ferris graduated from Pine Bluff High School in 2000 and earned a Bachelor of Science from Henderson State University at Arkadelphia in 2005.
He now holds five degrees that blend religious studies with advanced military strategy, including a Doctor of Ministry in Expositional Preaching from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and a Master of Military Operational Art and Science in Joint Warfare from the Air Command and Staff College at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Ala.
His service included tours with the Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 28 in Afghanistan, Marine Air Group 41, 4th Force Recon Co., 1st Naval Construction Regiment, and Command Navy Region Japan, among others.
He was the recipient of four Navy Achievement Medals.
In addition to May’s comments, the Pine Bluff Community Band played, and the White Hall ROTC posted the Colors.
Beaver Johnson sang “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and Jeff Armstrong, worship minister at the First Baptist Church-White Hall, gave the invocation.
Glen Minor recited a poem by Kelly Strong, “Freedom is not Free,” and lunch was provided by Catering by Scott Ray and FBT bank.
May closed the ceremony by saying, “Together, let’s ensure that their legacy of service and sacrifice continues to inspire generations to come.”
