HOPE – Under clear skies and a crisp November breeze, the people of Hope gathered at the Hempstead County Courthouse lawn Tuesday morning to honor the men and women who served our nation. The annual Veterans Day celebration, emceed by Terrie James, county extension agent and staff chairperson of the Hempstead Extension Service, reflected the deep respect and gratitude this community holds for its veterans.

County Judge Jerry Crane opened the ceremony with a heartfelt invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of the National Anthem. From the youngest fourth graders of Clinton Elementary to the oldest veterans in attendance, every head was bowed and every hand over the heart—a picture of reverence that spoke volumes about small-town pride.

One of the most touching m

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