Some of the county’s bravest men and women were honored Sunday during an early Veteran’s Day program.

The ceremony was held on the Shelby County Courthouse Lawn, beside a monument dedicated to county residents who died in World War I, World War II, Korea and Vietnam.

“It was a great afternoon,” said Stacy Walkup, director of the South Shelby Chamber of Commerce. “So many people, the veterans, came up to me afterward and thanked us for honoring them.”

The South Shelby Chamber helped sponsor the program, which started with an invocation by Columbiana Mayor Allan Lowe.

“I appreciate the service of all the veterans and their families,” said Lowe, a retired Army major.

Members of JROTC programs at Pelham, Thompson and Vincent high schools presented the nation’s colors. Boy Scout Troop No. 560, Cub Scout Pack No. 560 and Girl Scout Troop No. 493 also participated in the tribute.

Students Brittany Myers, Stephanie Myers and Ron Foster performed patriotic songs, including “America the Beautiful” and “It’s Always Been a Soldier.”

Lt. Col. Randy Zeegers, a Chelsea resident, delivered the keynote address. He oversees the First Battalion of the 20th Special Forces Group.

Walkup said the afternoon wasn’t just for veterans, but for the families of active service men and women too.

“A lot of families come in honor of those currently deployed … those not at home this Veteran’s Day,” Walkup said.