To those who missed out
To the Editor:
The American Legion and VFW held joint Veterans Day services at the Legion Post. Anyone, especially veterans, who had time to attend and didn’t should be ashamed. Not only did they slight the memory of brother veterans, they also missed taking part in the largest crowd to attend a Veterans Day service on Pine Island.
With the help of the legion, the Ladies Auxiliary and SAL, the VFW, their Ladies and Men’s Auxiliary and participating veterans and their families this was an expression of thanks to all who served and those now on active duty.
From the opening words of Legion Commander Joe Vallee to the closing with the sounds of “Taps” played by Jack Pickering, there were inspiring words by many guests. They were introduced by 1st. Vice Commander Ann Crawford and were Larry Guy, Commander of the Pine Island VFW Post 4353; past Legion Commander Tom Ruscik; Auxiliary President Carol Paulson; Adjutant Barry August; Retired Chaplin Larry Ager; also special guest Dr. Stephen Wener of the Fort Myers VA Clinic who treated some of the veterans attending the ceremony.
Always present at these services was the color guard consisting of Gary Avery, Patti Paul, Art Haley and Brady Buchholz and the Honor Guard leg by Doug Manson, with members Dick Thomas, Pete Trazzera and Al Orange concluded the ceremony with a rifle volley and “Taps” played by Jack Pickering.
Dick Thomas,
Post Service Officer
St. James City