NATCHEZ — Veterans Day gives honor to those who served for their country, which is a sign of true patriotism.

But retired Major General Erik Hearon thinks patriotism can be achieved in more ways than one.

Hearon served as the keynote speaker during Copiah-Lincoln Community College’s Natchez campus annual Veteran’s Day program Tuesday, sharing with those in attendance how one can devote themselves to their country.

“Patriotism can be perceived by being the best person you can be, build responsibility and duty to our nation, contribute to society, focus and participate, manage your time and talents to achieve goals, be a responsible student, citizen and family person and build yourself to help others,” Hearon said.

Hearon has had a memorable career representing the state and nation in the U.S. Air Force.

Hearon gave a brief history lesson of the birth of Veterans Day, speaking mainly to students in the audience who might one day have hopes of serving their country.

“We’re trying to plan for the next group that’s going to serve,” Hearon said.

Hearon stated more than 50 million Americans have served in the U.S. military since 1776, bearing the cost of America’s freedom.

All veterans share a common bond, Hearon said. Having an unwavering belief on the cost of freedom, and many have died doing so.

Hearon said local veterans are known as fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters and neighbors, but above all, they play an important part within the community.

“Most of them, their time of service, represent a defining moment in their lives,” Hearon said. “I really believe it gives a depth of character that no other profession can instill.”

Co-Lin freshman Gregory Robinson attended the Veteran’s Day program at Co-Lin for the first time, but he already knew the meaning of patriotism.

“The program was really nice,” Robinson said. “Why not remember the people who fought for us and gave their life for this country?”

Robinson thinks Veteran’s Day should be commemorated throughout the year.

“Everyone has their own message to give out,” Robinson said. “I feel the country should have a program like this often and give other veterans a chance to tell their story.”

Local World War II veteran Robert “Bob” Mims attended the event as a special guest, but Mims said he was there in honor of a special friend.

Mims’ plane was shot down above France by German enemies, it was at that moment Mims’ was captured as a prisoner of war, but his co-pilot and friend Leon Jackson did not survive the crash because of his parachute falling to open.

“Everybody who was in the plane ejected themselves out during the crash,” said Mims’ daughter Ginger Mims. “But Leon’s parachute did not open.”

Mims received a Home With Heroes hand stitched quilt of the American flag.

“It was a set up,” Mims said jokingly. “But I’m very much honored to receive this quilt.”