“Glory Hounds” dog handler keynotes veterans day celebration

When you woke up this morning, did you think you could not go to church the store or the movies because of a lack of freedom?

Did you think you could not write a letter to the editor under threat of imprisonment? Did you hesitate to share on Facebook or explore the Internet?

Or did you just automatically, without hesitation, enjoy the freedom to do what you wanted without fear?

That freedom is why we celebrate Veterans Day: a day to reflect on the amazing freedoms we take for granted almost every other day.

A day to celebrate those who ensure the United States Constitution is protected. Bandera Honors Veterans provides the opportunity to recognize those who served and sacrificed.

The “Honors” event also includes their families and supporters.

Family displays and information booths are welcome to set up for public viewing by 9:30 a.m.

This is an opportunity to share memories, accomplishments and history of veterans and those still serving our nation in uniform.

This four-part event is hosted by the Bandera American Legion Post 157 and supported by a host of local contributors and volunteers.

This year’s program features plenty of music and an amazing Air Force Military Working Dog (MWD) Handler, Technical Sergeant (TSgt) Leonard Anderson.

In his short 13 years in the U.S. Air Force, he trained and served in Texas, Montana, Florida, Korea, Alaska, and two combat deployments to Afghanistan. His MWD experience addressed law enforcement, narcotics interdiction, base security, training for combat readiness, secret service missions and explosive detection.

TSgt Anderson and three other handlers were chosen to participate in the Animal Planet documentary titled, “Glory Hounds” looking at the lives of K-9s in combat.

While leading a foot patrol in Afghanistan in July 2012, while filming, Anderson and his dog, Azza, were struck by a 200-pound remote-detonated Improvised Explosive Device. He will share his experience and his life after that blast.

Only he can share the three years of recovery from massive leg trauma, amputations, a broken eye socket, abdominal wounds and extensive shrapnel. That is only a synopsis of the physical wounds. Hearing about the incredible mental and physical strength it took and continues to require to thrive is the reason for all to hear him speak.

Anderson’s awards and decorations begin with the Purple Heart followed by over 30 other medals and ribbons.

The 21st Bandera Honors Veterans program at 10:30 a.m. will feature the San Antonio Pipes and Drums, the Alkek Elementary School Choir and soloist, Jenn D’Spain.

The POW/MIA tribute table will be in place. The Bandera High School Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps will provide the Color Guard, while Boy Scout Troop 146, Trail Life, and American Girl youth provide volunteer services for the veterans and attendees. Line-up for the parade at Bandera City Park begins at 9:30 a.m. and the parade begins at noon.

A veteran’s float will be posted by the Courthouse along Pecan Street and all are invited to ride.

It will return to the same place after the parade so veterans and their spouses can enjoy a free barbeque in their honor beginning at 1 p.m.

Information, parade and display applications are available by calling Rick 910-224-1758, or Theresa 830-688-1922.