CHARLOTTE, N.C. — They dedicate their lives to save ours.
For the first time ever Saturday, North Carolina inducted members into a Veterans Hall of Fame.
“Tonight is a very special night for all of us,” Air Force Lt. Gen. Tom Waskow said.
On Saturday, it inducted its first class.
The North Carolina Veterans Hall of Fame Foundation was established in 2016 to honor the state's veterans.
Each inductee was presented with an engraved medallion.
The goal is to induct 15 veterans and honor them at a banquet each year.
“It's very humbling. It certainly is,” said Dennis Helms, an Army veteran. “In a way, I don't really feel like I ought to be here because there are so many others that are more deserving than I am.”
Channel 9 was at the luncheon in Charlotte that honored the 22 inductees.
Eligible veterans must have lived in North Carolina for 10 years, have honorable service and be of good character.
They can be nominated for things including valor, service and achievement.
Organizers hope the Hall of Fame honors and recognizes the state's veterans while also inspiring the state's youth.
They also assist veterans get life's essentials for their post-military lives.