2026 Veterans Awards

Williamson County African American Veterans Accepting Nomination for the 2026 Veterans Awards

The stories of African American service members from Williamson County showcase a historic legacy of service and courage. From over 300 formerly enslaved men fighting for the Union to heroes like Medal of Honor recipient First Sergeant George Jordan and Tuskegee Airman Captain Thomas Patton, these individuals broke barriers and faced the gravest dangers, including PFC Richard Carothers, who was honored posthumously for his service in Vietnam. Their stories, along with those of countless others who served in every American conflict since the Civil War, embody a profound commitment to our country. Their sacrifices and achievements forge a poignant reminder of their indispensable contributions to the nation's history.

Our community has joined hands to honor the achievements, dedication and unwavering fidelity of these great Americans. A current project will raise $500,000 to restore and update the current building. Exhibits will be added to create a museum that will tell the story of Williamson County’s African American Veterans, and an endowment will be established to safeguard the post in perpetuity.

Also, as part of the ongoing recognition of the valiant service and sacrifice of the nation’s military members, the Williamson County African American Veterans Foundation is accepting nominations for the 2026 Veterans Awards in three categories:

• Veterans of the Year

• Veteran Support Organization of the Year

• Lifetime Legacy Veteran of the Year

Award recipients will be selected from those who have enthusiastically served and supported veterans in the county. According to Foundation Chair and U.S. Army Vietnam veteran Donnell Lane, “Last year was an extraordinary opportunity to highlight the contributions of our award recipients. The men and women from Williamson County who serve in uniform have made tremendous contributions and sacrifices in defense of this nation throughout our history. These awards recognize individual contributions beyond military service and the organizations that support our veterans.”

Nominations for the award will be due by August 15^th and will be accepted in three categories: individual living veterans, individual past veterans and an organization not directly chartered to support veterans but that does so as a commitment to serving our veterans. Selection criteria include outstanding community service, notable achievements and participation in beneficial community organizations and activities.

For consideration as the Veteran or Organization of the Year, nominations must be for a veteran who was honorably discharged from the U.S. military and is or was a resident of or employed in Williamson County, or for an organization that has a record of supporting military veterans. Nominations must be submitted by August 15^th, and selected recipients will be announced at an awards event held the week before Veterans Day.

The 2026 event is scheduled for November 5^th, with retiring Williamson County Mayor Rogers Anderson serving as the keynote speaker. To nominate an individual or organization, email the name to americanlegion215tn@gmail.com to receive a nomination form. For more information about the Williamson County African American Veterans Foundation, go to americanlegionpost215.org.