Former Maysvillian and Miss America 2000, Heather French Henry returned to this community Sunday, Nov. 6, to appear as guest speaker for her home church congregation at Victory Christian Center in old Washington.
Heather, an avid veteran’s advocate, spoke to a full capacity crowd in honor of our nation’s veterans and Veterans Day. Mrs. Henry, during her Miss America year and the years following has continued to lobby for veteran’s benefits and health care concerns. She also facilitates assistance to active duty soldiers as they transition to civilian life. She is the CEO of the Heather French Foundation for Veterans.
The regular 10:30 a.m. service at VCC was packed and as the members and visitors entered, the church featured a decor theme of red, white and blue. Each veteran or active duty soldier received a commemorative ribbon and flag pink along with a Gideon Bible representing their respective military branch of service. All members and guests received a special prepared patriotic card with poem and mint.
At the conclusion of the regular Praise and Worship Service members of the Mason County High School Jr. ROTC unit presented the colors with a very moving performance under the direction of 1st Sgt. David Fischer.
Rev. Byron X. Mills, pastor at VCC welcomed guests and offered prayer. He introduced former Staff Sgt. Ron E. French, VCC member and father of the guest of honor. He lead the Pledge to the American flag and to the Christian Flag and also recognized the individual branches of service accompanied with respective song themes. After an inspirational video for Veterans Day, Staff Sgt. French introduced his daughter.
During Heather’s presentation she recognized another special guest, Danny “Greasy” Belcher of Flemmingsburg and exceutive director of Task Force Omega. Kentucky Task Force Omega is a national organization which specializes in the awareness of POW-MIA statuses and other veteran’s issues. Belcher had only returned from Washington D.C. the night prior to the service and has worked closely with Mrs. Henry on these issues through the years.
Following her speech, Heather delighted listeners with her rendition of”God Bless The USA, ” Pastor Mills offered words of inspiration and an altar call. This was followed by the recognition of individuals in the church congregation for their service to their Nation.
Heather was available following to meet and greet, to sign autographs, and to pose for photographs with old and new friends, and to sign copies of patriotic children’s books which she wrote and illustrated herself. All book proceeds go to the foundation.
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