The 2025 Veterans Day ceremonies were held at the St. Tammany Justice Center Tuesday morning, November 11, 2025, with around 100 persons in attendance. A number of dignitaries gave talks about the importance of observing Veterans Day.
The event was hosted by the Robert H. Burns American Legion Post 16, and emceed by Malcolm "Mack" Maginnis Jr., post commander. Under sunny blue skies and unseasonably cool temperatures, the ceremonies included a rifle salute, the playing of taps, and the crowd singing the Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America.
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Covington City Councilman John Botsford was the guest speaker.
The audience in attendance
The POW-MIA chair, Malcolm Maginnis, Scott Cousins with the Sons of the American Legion and Taps being played by a member of the St. Tammany Veterans Honor Guard
Parish Councilman Larry Rolling, Lucy Vennen with the Post Auxiliary, and Matt Cole with the Justin McLeese Detachment of the Marine Corps League.
Bonnie Dennis with the Daughters of the American Revolution, Pierre deMarigny Chapter of Mandeville, Lane Carson and Guest Speaker John Botsford.
A video featuring the talk given by John Botsford
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The event began with the presentation of colors by the St. Tammany Veterans Honor Guard
Followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag led by the American Heritage Girls, who also recited the Pledge in sign language as well
The oldest veteran in attendance was 104-year-old James Robinson
Lane Carson, head of the St. Tammany Veterans Foundation, spoke about the Fallen Heroes Memorial at the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Slidell.
Video of the Veterans Day Program
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Speakers listening to Lucy Vennen of the Post 16 Auxiliary
The program was opened and closed with prayer by Commander Maginnis
The Covington Fire Dept. once again brought its ladder truck and large American flag to provide a patriotic backdrop to the event.