The Humboldt Exchange Club marked Veterans Day with its annual celebration Thursday, gathering community members to honor local service members and veterans.
The morning began at the state veterans' home with patriotic music and a color guard presentation before students and families moved to a commemorative program at East Elementary School.
Exchange Club president Elna Blankenship encouraged residents to thank veterans whenever they see someone wearing a service cap or shirt, saying a brief word of gratitude only takes a moment.
Organizers said the dual-site format lets older veterans receive a visit at the home while schoolchildren take part in a structured remembrance program tied to classroom lessons.
Humboldt's celebration is one of several West Tennessee Veterans Day events leading into the November holiday weekend across Gibson and Madison counties.
WBBJ covered the Exchange Club program as part of regional Veterans Day reporting, showing both the morning ceremony and the school assembly that followed.
Club members said they will keep the same basic schedule in future years because veterans and families have come to expect the two-stop tradition.
West Tennessee viewers following the story through local television will see updates as officials release more detail.
Community leaders said they will keep watching developments and share verified information rather than rumors circulating on social feeds.
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Sources: WBBJ; Humboldt Exchange Club