Gatlinburg Convention Center
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
November 11, 2025
Kelly Swanson, President of the Volunteer Chapter of the American Gold Star Mothers, was asked by Macey Dance, Director of Events of the Gatlinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau to speak at their annual Veterans Day Ceremony on November 11, 2025. Kelly spoke on behalf of the Chapter, giving information about the Chapter and what we do to support our Veterans. Kelly also spoke about her favorite Veteran, SSG Christopher Swanson. The event was hosted by Don Dare of WATE Channel 6 TV out of Knoxville, TN.
The keynote speaker was retired U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major, Stephen Ball. The ceremony was well attended, and everyone was happy that the ceremony was moved indoors because of the cold weather!