Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Veterans from the U.S. military came together on November 5 at the Catholic Enrichment Center of the Archdiocese of Louisville for an early Veterans Day celebration and health fair. The event, located at 3146 West Broadway, was co-sponsored by the Kentucky Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

The gathering included a presentation of colors and a pre-recorded welcome message from Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear. Attendees were recognized for their service and had access to free health screenings, informational resources, medicine disposal services, workshops, and lunch. Whitney Allen, commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Veteran Affairs, was present at the event.

Phil Elergy, a parishioner at St. Martin de Porres and U.S. Air Force veteran, shared his thoughts about Veterans Day, which is observed on November 11 this year. "Happy and proud that I did serve my country," he said.

He also expressed his hope to be "an example to others" regarding the opportunities that come with military service.