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During the second whole week of November, many in Winchester took time to celebrate Veterans Day. 

On Saturday, Nov. 16, others took time as well. 

The Winchester Black History and Heritage Committee presented the WBHHC Veterans Day Art & Music Program to recognize those who have served and are serving as well as other interests. 

“Each year, we try to celebrate the [African American] veterans in our community,” said Anna Mason, a Winchester Black History and Heritage Committee member who served as Mistress of Ceremony during the event. “[We wanted to] support [African American] artists as well as our veterans.”  

The event, which took place at First Baptist Church on 37 N. Highland Street, featured, among other things, an open recognition art exhibit and special music. 

While the latter showcased Eli Holbrook, the former featured works by various talents. 

Several books were among them, such as “My Favorite Red Sneakers” by Earlene Conner, with illustrations by Tina Brandenburg, and “The Untold History: From Slaveships to Horse Racing” by Wallace Howard. 

Debbie Barnes, who also serves as curator at Holly Rood on Beckner Street, exhibited quilts. 

Artwork was contributed by the likes of Lavoila Frances, Darryl Davis, Kenneth Williams, and more. 

Dwane Morton and Dwayne Green also contributed, among many others. Vanessa Mason performed the solo “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” Velma Thompson sang “Just Want to Praise You,” and Lawrence Williams contributed music. 

Certainly not least, Master Sergeant Richard Higgins spoke at the event to celebrate those in the armed forces. 

Higgins, a Winchester native, retired from the United States Air Force after serving for over twenty years as a traffic management specialist and subject matter expert in the field.

His military experience saw him serve in places that included Japan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and more. 

He also served in the Gulf War and the Iraq War. 

Following retirement from the Air Force, Higgins also worked in the U.S. Navy for 10 years. 

“I thought it was an honor and privilege [to speak],” he said. [If] you don’t go to college, the military is [another] option that you have.” 

When asked what some of the biggest lessons he learned during his service were, Higgins spoke. 

“Friendships that you gain along the way,” he said. “My best friend lives in [Las] Vegas. The friendships are just long-lasting.” 

Higgins, who currently works with the United States Department of Agriculture, also responded regarding what message he hopes others will take away from the event. 

“[My experience] led me to the USDA. The military sort of prepared me for all of this,” he said. 

The Winchester Black History and Heritage Committee looks to continue serving others community-wide.