Area coal miners will be recognized for the hard work and sacrifice they routinely put forth during the13th annual Coal Miners Appreciation Day to be held in Lynch.

Lynch Mayor Bob Collier said it is important to recognize coal miners for their work.

“We are gathering to remember coal miners and show our appreciation for them,” Collier said. “They are the reason this place is still in existence.”

Collier said coal miners have played an important role in the country’s history.

“We admire and appreciate all coal miners for their diligence in providing energy for the country. The coal that came out of Harlan County kept the whole country alive for years.” he said. “A lot of the coal that has come out of here has went to make weapons for both world wars. The mine in Lynch also provided coal that was used to make explosives.”

Besides recognizing area coal miners for their work, the nominees for the “Walk of Legends” will also be announced, and several musical acts are scheduled to perform, including Brooklyn Woods and Marvin Goins. Collier said he is expecting between 200 and 250 to attend the event.

This year’s Coal Miners Appreciation Day is scheduled for Oct. 11 at 2 p.m. Refreshments will be served starting at 1 p.m. The event will be held at the Lynch depot, with Harlan Circuit Court Judge Russell Alred serving as the guest speaker.

Collier added he would like to invite everyone to attend this year’s event.

“This is not only for Lynch coal miners, it’s for all coal miners,” he said. “Anyone is welcome to come. The more the merrier. We would like to see enough to where they would have to stand outside and look through the windows to see what’s going on.”