Hundreds in the community are expected to gather at the Lincoln Civic Center on Nov. 11 to honor local veterans and their families.

Sen. Sally Doty, R-Brookhaven, said it’s a community effort — there’s no bank account or central organization behind it. They do it, Doty said, because veterans have touched everyone’s lives.

“Our veterans have ensured our way of life,” Doty said. “It is so important to thank them for their service.”

Doty has two nephews-in-law serving as pilots in the Air Force, and her father served for two years in the Korean War.

“He got on a plane, and a train and a boat and did his service,” she said of her dad. “And then he came back and raised families and went about just being a good citizen. And we’ve got so many of those folks here in Lincoln County.”

Veterans and their families will be served a meal starting at 5:15 p.m., and a program will begin at 6 p.m., where Laura Lee Lewis will sing the national anthem and Marvin Curtis will play piano. Door prizes will also be given out at the event.

Doty said walk-ins are welcome, but veterans who would like to receive a formal invitation may also register their name and address with the Brookhaven-Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce at 601-833-1411. Doty has compiled a large list of local veterans over the years just for this event, and the names will not be used for any purpose other than sending invitations for the Veterans Day event.

“We’re trying to be as inclusive as possible,” Doty said.

Doty is expecting about 300 attendees, and it’s a good chance for the wider community to get to know their local veterans.

“It’s so much fun to come and talk to these gentlemen and hear their stories,” Doty said. “I would encourage everyone to come before 6 and visit. Shake these guys’ hands and let them know you care about them.”