America’s 250th: Celebrating 250 Years of Independence
By Heather Elliott, Interim, Outreach Specialist
VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (TVHS) celebrated America’s 250th by hosting its Freedom 250 Celebration and Resource Fair for Veterans and community members on June 16 at the Smyrna Stewart Air Force Base.
The celebration kicked off with the Presentation of Colors by the U.S. Marines, 3/23 Kilo Company followed by country artist Brooks Herring performing the National Anthem and an invocation with chaplain James Ward.
Special remarks were delivered by TVHS Interim Deputy Executive Director Dr. Bridget Brozyna and Nashville VA Regional Office Manager Shelley Mullins, honoring the services and sacrifices of Veterans throughout American history.
“As TVHS came together to celebrate 250 years of the United States, we honor the courage, dedication, and sacrifices of our all our service members who have built this nation,” Brozyna said. “Their commitment ensures our freedom and security for generations to come. Thank you to those currently serving and to their families who support them.”
During the event, Veterans took stage to share their personal stories with event goers, recounting unique and heartfelt moments of service, sacrifice, and hope. As they reflected on moments from their time in uniform, whether on distant battlefields or in service to their communities, their words brought history to life and underscored the profound impact of military service.
Cpt. Micah Taylor, U.S. Army, Retired, chronicled and shared her military story at the event. She shared an excerpt of her military journey with the crowd stating:
“Eight weeks of hell — pure sweat, grit, and a drill sergeant determined to break us — and one Lee Greenwood song “God Bless the USA” moment later, everything shifted.
And here’s the thing — that moment?
That shift?
It’s not just an Army story.
It doesn’t matter what uniform we were wearing … every one of us knows that turning point.
Basic, boot camp, training — whatever your branch calls it — has a way of breaking you down and building you into something more, and somewhere in the middle of all that chaos, something opens inside you.
For me, it was that song [Lee Greenwood’s God Bless the USA]. That moment. That formation.
Suddenly everything became more. More real.
More meaningful. More connected to purpose.
Serving under the 18th MP Brigade, the 16th MP Brigade, and the 3rd Infantry Division, I had no clue the journey or path this would set me upon. That a quiet farm girl would one day stand proudly in those formations, leading Soldiers into Iraq.”
The resource fair featured several VA services and programs ranging from women’s health, Military 2 VA Transition Program, and more along with claims assistants from Veterans Benefits Administration and representatives from Tennessee Department of Veterans Services.
As part of the nationwide America 250 campaign, TVHS and those in attendance reaffirmed their commitment to serving those who have served and to fostering unity, reflection, and civic pride.
Two hundred and fifty years ago, America was born.
On July 4, 1776, representatives from thirteen colonies gathered in Philadelphia to sign the Declaration of Independence, marking the beginning of a new nation founded on the ideals of liberty, equality, and self-government. Since that historic moment, the United States has grown and changed in remarkable ways, through challenges, triumphs, and the collective efforts of generations.
As we mark America’s 250th anniversary, we honor the enduring spirit of independence that continues to inspire the nation. This milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on our past, celebrate our progress, and look forward to the future with hope and unity.