For those who showed up at the Steamboat Warehouse Pavilion Monday evening, it was evident that New Iberia supports her veterans. 

A ceremony in honor of Veterans Day put on by the Iberia Veterans Association was absolutely packed with local residents who turned out to pay their respects to the men and women who served their country in the U.S. military. 

Organizer Dave Feldman, remembering the 1960s and 1970s, said he could remember the 1960s and 70s when someone wearing a uniform would be called a people-killer by protesters, and turning to the present day said he was overjoyed at the way people in the present day support those who have served. 

“Veterans have never been people killers, we are people protectors,” Feldman said. “I guess we’re back.”

The ceremony included a long list of local political officials as well as veterans who spoke on the meaning and intentions behind Veterans Day, which has been designated a U.S. holiday since 1938. 

“Their sacrifice reminds us that freedom isn’t free,” Louisiana State Sen. Blake Miguez, R-New Iberia, said at the event. 

Help from the local Boy Scouts and the Iberia Community Band gave additional support to the event, with the national anthem being played by local musicians coming out to support veterans in the area as well. 

The growth of the event, which would only see a few dozen in attendance in some years, impressed those who were not from the area. 

Chief operating officer for Patriot Rehabilitation Hospital Jimmy Morgan said he was absolutely astounded by the turnout of the event. 

“Look at this place,” Morgan said. “Look at everybody here. It is so awesome that New Iberia turns out for its veterans like this. I’m so impressed.”