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“My family’s safety is what I fight for,” were the opening remarks of Senior Master Sergeant Darren W. Bridgers during Hinds’ Veterans Day program on Nov. 10.

Sgt. Bridgers served as the speaker for this year’s Raymond Campus program, which featured display tables from Hinds’ Department of Mental Health and Disability Support Services and acknowledgments from Maj. Andrew Adcock, commander of the Mississippi Army National Guard.

Sgt. Bridgers is the Inspection Section Superintendent for the 172d Maintenance Squadron at Thompson Field in Jackson, Miss. The 172d Maintenance Squadron maintains and supports nine C-17 aircraft for global strategic airlift and aerial evacuation missions for the United States Air Force and the Department of Defense.

“The worst part of military duty is when I have to leave my family,” Bridgers said. “I am sure any veteran and any veteran family member can relate to that. As we gather here today, thousands of soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines and coast guards are on the job worldwide protecting America and our freedoms.”

Maj. Adcock spoke briefly to acknowledge veterans and the families of veterans present during the program. “Service to this county comes in many different forms,” Maj. Adcock said. “Freedom isn’t free; we all have a role to play.”

The program concluded with a rendition of “God Bless The USA” by Sam Puckett, music director for First Baptist Church in Raymond, and a presentation to honor America’s fallen comrades.

Sgt. Bridgers is a native of Jackson and a graduate of Raymond High school.