Veterans from throughout Wabash County were honored Wednesday morning during the annual Veterans Day ceremony at the Mt. Carmel VFW.
The observance featured patriotic music from the Wabash County Singers, participation by the Wabash County Honor Guard, and a keynote address from retired Army Lieutenant Colonel Ulisses Taymes, who reflected on military service, sacrifice, and the challenges veterans face when returning to civilian life.
Taymes, who devoted 36 years to military service, shared his personal journey from growing up in Panama to serving in the United States Army.
He enlisted in May of 1989 and served with the 82nd Airborne Division, participating in Operation Just Cause in Panama later that year.
Taymes recalled the unusual experience of being sent into combat in his native country, where some of the Panamanian soldiers he encountered had been his high school classmates.
Following his active-duty service, Taymes joined the New York Army National Guard while working as a detective investigator for the Brooklyn District Attorney's Office.
He became a commissioned officer in 2004 and went on to hold numerous military intelligence and leadership positions, including an assignment with the Defense Intelligence Agency.
During Wednesday's address, Taymes emphasized the special bond shared by veterans, regardless of their branch of service, military rank, or generation.
He told those attending that military service creates a connection built on trust, sacrifice, and a willingness to put the lives of fellow service members ahead of one's own.
Taymes also spoke about the difficulties many veterans experience when transitioning back to civilian life.
He described leaving the military as a second battle, explaining that veterans often struggle with the loss of structure, purpose, and camaraderie that defined their years in uniform.
Taymes stressed the importance of organizations such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars, calling VFW posts a lifeline for former service members who need friendship, understanding, and continued support.
He also reminded veterans that their contributions do not end when they leave the military.
Taymes encouraged them to continue serving their communities through leadership, mentorship, and sharing the lessons learned during their years of service.
He retired from the Army in April of 2025 with the rank of lieutenant colonel. His military decorations include the Bronze Star Medal and Meritorious Service Medal.
Today, Taymes serves as the senior Army instructor for the Junior ROTC program at Theodore Roosevelt High School in the Bronx, New York.
Wednesday's ceremony provided an opportunity for the Wabash County community to recognize the sacrifices of veterans and express appreciation for the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
