Oct. 26, 2021

The Johnson County Veterans Day observance will carry on its traditional recognition of local veterans on Thursday, Nov. 11, beginning at 11 a.m. and be presented virtually online only in observance of health and safety guidelines for reducing/containing the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

The 2021 celebration will be recognizing veterans of Desert Storm (30th anniversary) and Iraq and Afghanistan and featuring Bravo Company (the “Spartans”), 7th Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment at the New Century AirCenter. The unit lost a Chinook helicopter a decade ago when it was shot down in Afghanistan, killing 38 military personnel, including five crew members from the AirCenter.

Planned speakers include Megan Duncan, a Gold Star mother whose son, Spencer, was killed in the downing of the helicopter. U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, R-Kansas, is also expected to speak. BOCC Chairman Ed Eilert will serve as the in-person emcee for the program.

The program will feature pre-recorded videos of traditional participation, including posting of colors, wreath presentations, the playing of “Taps” and rifle salute. The virtual event will be live streamed on boccmeetings.jocogov.org and Facebook Live.

Johnson County facilities, including the administration building, will be closed on Nov. 11 in honor of Veterans Day.