Successful Veterans Day ceremony
To the editor:
The American Legion, along with the VFW of Pine Island, hosted the most successful Veterans Day Ceremonies in our history. There were over 200 people who attended with as many VFW Members as Legion Members present. The public showed up in force!
Jim Love of the Sons of the Legion gave an inspiring opening prayer. He was immediately followed by Paul Birdwell of the VFW who read the poem, “Freedom is not free.” There was not a dry eye to be seen. Tom Ruscik of the Legion gave an inspiring talk about veterans sacrifices and those of the families of those brave men and women.
I talked about veterans through the ages starting with those patriotic early Americans who stood up to the British on the Boston Commons in 1770. Some gave their lives on that spot for the Liberty they wished so much for. I thanked the veterans of all other times of conflict for their service and sacrifices. I asked all World War II Veterans to stand and be recognized. There was an immediate round of applause for these fine people. One WWII Chief Petty Officer wore his original uniform with pride and looked like he was ready to assume his next watch on the bridge! It made your heart really feel good to see the last of the “Greatest Generation!”
The American Legion Honor Guard performed a four gun salute and all the guns actually fired all the rounds! Taps were played in fine stile! All in attendance were then invited in for a free lunch provided for by the Legion and the VFW.
We all want to thank all involved to make this so much of a successful event and invite all to come out and support these fine Americans next year.
How can any enemy hope to defeat the United States of America with men and women as great as those who have served and are now serving this fabulous country of ours?
Capt. Barry August
Commander, Post 136 of St. James City, FL