April 2, 2018

Dear Friend,

We are fortunate to live in a nation where we are free to practice our religious beliefs without fear of persecution. On Sunday, many Mississippians gathered with family and friends for worship services, followed by an afternoon of food and fellowship. For many families, there was an empty chair at the table. Let us all remember our men and women in uniform who are away, serving our great nation. They include members of the Mississippi Army National Guard who recently deployed to Fort Bliss, Texas for training. Their deployment to Kuwait in support of Operation Spartan Shield takes place this summer. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of our service members and with their families who make it possible for them to protect the freedoms we all enjoy.

operation grateful nation

More than 58,000 men and women lost their lives during the Vietnam War. Every year, thousands of people visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. to pay their respects. Tupelo also offers the opportunity to view the names of the fallen. Last week, the G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War by hosting an event at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Replica Wall located at Veterans Park in Tupelo.

The event titled, "Operation Grateful Nation" was the first of its kind organized by G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center officials. More than 50 veterans were transported by bus to the event and were escorted by law enforcement officers and the Patriot Guard Riders from Jackson to Tupelo. Veterans received a warm welcome from City of Tupelo officials, Lee County officials, and area residents. For many of the veterans, this was their first time to see the names of their friends and loved ones engraved on the monument. We are grateful to the VA for this unique opportunity given to all these veterans who proudly served our nation.

honoring oxford veterans

Last week, our nation recognized National Vietnam War Veterans Day. In Oxford, veterans were honored for their service at the Oxford, Ole Miss, Lafayette County Veterans Building.

Jerry Bratton, a retired Vietnam War veteran, said the event was even more special because many Mississippi State Veterans Home of Oxford residents were also able to attend. The good food and fellowship were enjoyed by more than 100 people who passed through the doors.

Veterans included: Jerry Daum from Water
Valley, Jerry Bratton from Oxford,
Bob Brooks from Water Valley, and
Gene Hays from Oxford

We are grateful for the many patriotic citizens of Lafayette County who worked hard to make this day a special one for our veterans.

searching for Vietnam veterans

Ashland Mayor Mitch Carroll, a Vietnam War veteran, is trying to locate all the Vietnam War veterans who live in Benton County. He said many are unaware that our nation recognizes National Vietnam War Veterans Day. .

Benton County Vietnam War veterans
Bobby Renfro, David Hunsucker,
Willie Thompson, Mitch Carroll,
Luther Williams, Don Jeanes, Charlie Walls,
and Larry Nance

One month ago, Mayor Carroll began compiling a list of names of all the Vietnam War veterans who live in Benton County. He is hoping to locate all of the veterans so they can be recognized during a Vietnam War Veterans Day ceremony to be held in Ashland in 2019. "So many Vietnam veterans have no idea that America and the state of Mississippi officially recognize Vietnam War veterans during the month of March," Mayor Carroll said. "I want them all to know how much we appreciate their service."

For more information, give Mayor Carroll a call at the Ashland Town Hall. The number to call is (662) 224-6282.

building a workforce in belmont

Mississippians are known for their hard work and dedication on the job. Their skills are sought after by a wide variety of employers from the healthcare profession to manufacturing to the banking industry. It is essential that we continue to provide them with a workforce that is second to none. That is the goal of the annual Belmont Middle School Career Day.

Natalie Coker, Belmont Middle School Counselor, recently invited job creators to take part in the event. Students talked with a number of professionals including members of law enforcement, steel plant representatives, and nurses. Each shared information about their jobs with students, including salary and education requirements. "These men and women are a true inspiration to these young people," Natalie said. "They are here to give practical information that gives students real-world knowledge of all the opportunities that are available to them right here in Belmont."

Mary Katherine Roberts with Belmont Middle
School Teacher Chris Higginbottom

Mary Katherine Roberts, a Belmont Middle School student, said the event really helped her to decide what career she wants to pursue. After talking with a variety of educators, she said teaching is going to be her field of choice.

It is encouraging to see this great spirit of cooperation between employers and the school district. With their help, we will continue to offer businesses and industries the hardworking Mississippians they need to achieve success.

STAY IN TOUCH

Let me know if there is anything my office can do to assist you. You can keep up with the latest news by signing up for my newsletter and following me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Thanks for reading,

Rep. Trent Kelly (MS-01)
Member of Congress