Despite adjustments brought on by the recent government shutdown, the Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce proudly kicked off Veterans Day celebrations for the state of Alabama with its annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. Held at the Chamber’s downtown headquarters, the event united civic leaders, military representatives, and community organizations in a powerful display of gratitude and collaboration, reinforcing the Capital Region’s commitment to those who have served our nation.
Ceremonies like these emphasize the vital importance of regional collaboration. From education and housing to state leadership, every organization plays a pivotal role in creating a robust network of support for veterans and their families. As a designated Great American Defense Community, Montgomery and the Capital Region exemplify how coordinated efforts can strengthen not just a single city, but an entire region. When civic organizations, local businesses, schools, and military leaders work in concert, the result is a community that honors the past, addresses the needs of today, and builds a stronger, more resilient future for those who have served.
Chamber Chairwoman, Stacia Robinson opened the program with a heartfelt welcome, setting the tone for a morning filled with reverence and appreciation. The National Anthem, performed by Rick Plaskett, was followed by a moving invocation from Ron Simmons, inviting attendees to pause and reflect on the enduring sacrifices made by service members and their families.
The Booker T. Washington Magnet High School Concert Band delivered an inspiring musical interlude, filling the Chamber with energy and pride as the community’s future leaders paid tribute to those who made their futures possible.
Steve Murray of the Alabama Department of Archives and History shared insight into Alabama’s deep military roots and announced an exciting milestone: “Tomorrow we will cut the ribbon on Alabama Military Stories, a brand-new presentation of our military history space on the second floor of the museum,” Murray said. “This space was designed with the assistance of active-duty members, veterans, and military families who helped us tell the story of not only those in uniform, but also the families, towns, and defense industries that make up the backbone of Alabama’s military community.”
Following his remarks, Barbara Clark, founder of Sweetpea Homes, shared the powerful mission behind her organization, which provides safe housing and comprehensive support for veterans who have become homeless due to challenging circumstances. “At Sweetpea, we provide a steppingstone for them to get back on track and just give them a safe place,” Clark said. She highlighted a meaningful success story: “One of our veterans had never met his grandkids, who are eight and ten, and just recently, he got to meet them because Sweetpea Homes was able to help him rebuild stability and reconnect with his family.”
The program also featured Tavian Hargrove, the MEMS Veterans Day Essay Contest Winner, whose heartfelt essay captured both gratitude and a call to action for the next generation to support and honor America’s veterans.
Commissioner Jeff Newton of the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs provided an update on statewide initiatives and ongoing efforts to improve services for veterans and their families. He also presented two distinguished awards recognizing outstanding service and dedication:
- The Lieutenant Colonel Robert M. Horton Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Paulette Risher, honors an Alabama-based civilian organization or individual for superior volunteer service or lasting contributions to Alabama service members, veterans, and their families.
- The Volunteer Contribution Award, presented to Tammy Doerer, annually recognizes an Alabama-based civilian or civilian-led organization for meritorious volunteer service, the initiation of a valuable project, or other meaningful contributions to the lives of Alabama veterans.
The ceremony concluded with a moment of silence honoring fallen heroes, followed by closing remarks from Stacia Robinson, who thanked attendees and reaffirmed the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to Montgomery’s proud military heritage.
The Montgomery Regional Chamber extends special thanks to Caddell Construction, presenting sponsor of this year’s event, for helping make this meaningful tribute possible.
Together, we honor our heroes—not just on Veterans Day, but every day!
View and download photos from the ceremony here: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCzJsF
