By JAN GRIFFEY / Editor

World War I did not officially end until June 28, 1919. However, fighting ended on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918 — Nov. 11, 1918.

Originally known as Armistice Day, that’s when Americans honor our veterans — past and present — for their service to our nation.

A number of events are planned in Shelby County to pay tribute to those who have sacrificed for the good of all in our country.

In Columbiana, the annual Veterans’ Day ceremony will take place on Sunday on the lawn in front of the Shelby County Courthouse beginning at 2 p.m.

Sponsored by the South Shelby Chamber of Commerce, newly inaugurated Columbiana Mayor Stancil Handley will open the ceremony. ROTC Color Guards from Vincent and Pelham will present our nation’s colors.

Mike Mason, son of Bonnie Atchison, who is chairing the event, will sing the National Anthem and other patriotic music.

Joe McCormick, who earned a Purple Heart as a veteran in the Pacific Theater in World War II, will speak about his experiences, as well as his recent Honor Flight trip — the last — to Washington, D.C.

Connie Gaither of the Shelby County Juvenile Courts will also speak about her military experiences.

On Monday morning, Nov. 12, the American Legion Post 131 in Columbiana will hold its annual Veterans’ Day Pancake Breakfast at the Columbiana Recreation Building, across from the high school football stadium, from 7 to 9 a.m. All veterans will eat free, along with children under 10 years of age. Breakfast for others is $5. The American Legion will have information available for anyone interested in joining.

Following the breakfast, all veterans and attendees are invited to observe a flag disposal ceremony, led by Sid Wheeler, scoutmaster, and the Boy Scouts of Troop 560.

When the clock strikes 11 a.m. on Sunday, take some time to remember the many who have paid the ultimate price for the freedoms we enjoy.

Jan Griffey is the editor for the Shelby County Reporter. She can be reached at 669-3131 ext. 36 or by email at jan.griffey@shelbycountyreporter.com.