Editor:
    Just a few lines to thank everyone who attended the annual Veterans Day Program at the Averitt Center. It was a smashing success thanks to a lot of people who participated on and off stage.
    WWNS , Statesboro Herald, Chick-fil-A, McAllister's, Lewis Color, Joiner-Anderson, American Legion Dexter Allen Post 90, Awards South, Bulloch County Historical Society, Dr. Stephanie Furry and her GSU Quintet Brass Band
    As you can see there were a lot of hands involved in making the program so enjoyable.
    Lonnie Ellis our commander of Post # 90 was the keynote speaker. He was introduced by Bob Marsh, Adjutant of Post #90. Lonnie did an outstanding job. Nothing written, he spoke straight from the heart.
    The opening prayer was given by Chaplain Charlie Williams, a WWII veteran, The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Judge Joe Neville, also a WWII veteran. The National Anthem was very well done by the GSU Brass Quintet.
    The following welcomed the veterans in their own way: Daphne Totten, president of the Averitt Center, Trish Tootle, president of the Statesboro Kiwanis Club, John Sullivan, a former Marine who will be the keynote speaker for the Memorial Day 2016 program, Ray Hayes, US Army, Judge Lee H. DeLoach, National Guard, and Jimmie Alderman, US Air Force.
    Judge Neville also asked all the veterans in attendance to stand for "The Oath of a Soldier."
    I had the regent of The Daughters of the American Revolution next to speak, Martha Wells. She spoke about an award that she was going to present called "The Americanism Award."
    You had to be a naturalized citizen to qualify. I was just sitting there listening to what Martha was saying and imagine my surprise when she said my name!
    I was speechless! I want to personally thank Sara Hines, who was, I understand, very instrumental in me getting this prestigious award.
    Thank you, thank you and one more thank you! In closing I want all to know that I do the Veterans Day and Memorial Day programs not for recognition, but for my love of America and all things that make it great. I am proud to be an American.
    My wife Martha likes to say: "Frenchman by birth, Italian by adoption and American by choice!"
Daniel R. Foglio Sr. Vice Commander
Dexter Allen Post #90