Military veterans and active duty service members were honored Saturday during the Billy Graham Library's Military Appreciation Day. Edward Graham, a 16-year Army veteran, encouraged members of the military to recognize that their true identity is found in Jesus Christ.
Two Vietnam-era helicopters were brought to the Library, where guests enjoyed climbing in and having their pictures taken as they chatted with former pilots of these aircraft.
Guests lined up outside the gate of the Billy Graham Library before the Library opened Saturday morning. More than 300 guests enjoyed yard games, food and a message. Many also took advantage of the free Journey of Faith tour, which chronicles Billy Graham's life and how God can use ordinary people to do extraordinary things.
At the start of the program, each branch of service was recognized and the crowd stood for the National Anthem.
Many guests wrote cards for those still in the service.
They also had a chance to mail the cards onsite.
Edward Graham shared how throughout his time as an Army Ranger he tried to find his identity in the military. God brought Him to a place where he realized his identity could be found only in Christ, he said. He closed his message with the Gospel and gave people an opportunity to respond. He spent a couple of hours afterward speaking and praying with guests.
Inside the Billy Graham Library where people could cool off in the bookstore or at the Dairy Bar.
Attendees were treated to a complimentary lunch. It was a hot day with highs in the 90's, but the grill was hotter!
Some guests have been out of the service for many years, including two guests who served in WWII. Some family of military members were much younger!
