Jacksonville honors veterans at annual Freedom Fountain observance

JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (WITN) - Community members gathered Friday for Jacksonville’s annual Freedom Fountain observance, honoring service members and veterans who have spent time in the city and at Camp Lejeune.

Rain moved the ceremony inside City Hall, where the Dixon High School choir sang the National Anthem, and Marine Corps Gen. Maura Hennigan delivered the Freedom Address.

Hennigan, who previously served at Camp Lejeune, spoke about the connection between the base and the surrounding community.

She said Jacksonville can be a home away from home for service members who cannot always return to their families.

“And while they can’t be home, this acts as their home,” Hennigan said.

The Freedom Fountain observance has been held annually since 2012. After the ceremony, attendees were invited outside to replenish the fountain by pouring water into it.

Brent Anderson of the Onslow Civic Affairs Committee said the fountain reflects the community’s appreciation for its military members and their role in Onslow County.

“I think one of the biggest messages that we can give is that Onslow County and Jacksonville and this community just cares about its military,” Anderson said. “The military is such an integral part of who we are and what Onslow County is about.”

Jacksonville’s Veterans Day parade is scheduled for Saturday on Western Boulevard.