GATLINBURG, Tenn. (Smokies.LIVE Information Center) — Gatlinburg honored the nation’s military veterans and their families Wednesday during its annual Veterans Day Celebration at Mills Auditorium inside the Gatlinburg Convention Center.
The community-wide ceremony began at 11 a.m. Nov. 11 and was free and open to the public. Free parking was available at 309 Reagan Drive.
This year’s keynote speaker was Staff Sgt. Lee Douglas, general manager of Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg and a native of Gatlinburg.
Douglas served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2009 to 2015 before continuing his military service with the Tennessee Army National Guard in 2020. His career reflects a continued commitment to service, leadership and his hometown community.
The ceremony also featured a cappella performances of The Star-Spangled Banner and America by Miss Gatlinburg Teen Hadley Kate Webb.
Additional presentations and tributes included participation from American Legion Post 202, Scouting America Troop 211 and Pack 111, along with recognition of Gold Star and Blue Star families.
Longtime journalist and military veteran Don Dare of WATE returned as the event’s host, guiding attendees through the program.
The ceremony also included patriotic tributes and a POW/MIA Table presentation honoring prisoners of war and service members who remain missing in action.
Gatlinburg has served as an official regional site for Veterans Day observances since 2000, a designation made by the Veterans Day National Committee and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The annual celebration brings the community together to recognize the courage, dedication and sacrifices of those who have served in the nation’s armed forces.
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