A four star general returned home to Martin County on Veteran's Day.

Robert H. Reed left Warfield for the Air Force more than 60 years ago.

Wednesday, during his first trip back to eastern Kentucky in years, he got a big surprise.

Hundreds filled Sheldon Clark High School's gym to honor veterans, including Four Star General Robert H. Reed.

General Reed left Martin County in 1946 to join the Air Force.

He travelled the world for decades serving the country and fighting for freedom.

He has a list of military awards, including the Distinguished Service Medal and Distinguished Flying Cross.

“It was an honor to be graced with his presence,” Bradley Stafford said.

“I wanted to bring a message of hope and optimism,” General Robert H. Reed said.

General Reed helped honor around 50 local veterans.

Then the crowd honored him with a surprise, by naming part of Highway 292, near his childhood home after him.

“I'm very humbled by that,” General Reed said.

“Seeing somebody from here has done something that big, he's a role model to me because of all the accomplishments he has,” Stafford said.

General Reed was in awe of them too.

“Very motivated students, bright shiny faces. If they just apply themselves, getting an education is extremely important, and the opportunities are going to be unlimited,” General Reed said.

Students say they will not forget where the opportunities came from.

General Reed retired in 1988.

He now lives in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.