This months’ blog centers on one theme, thanking alumni who have served their country in the military. I personally want to welcome you home and give my heartfelt appreciation for the time spent away from family and your commitment to duty in the Armed Forces. If you were in Winterset on Memorial Day you had the opportunity to see veterans and community members gather at the Winterset Cemetery for ceremonies honoring those who gave their lives in service. The American Legion and VFW members marched from the Courthouse Square to the Cemetery, names of Madison County servicemen were read who died while serving their country in one of the Wars the United States has been involved with. The main speaker provided a brief history of America’s involvement in these wars and his main theme was helping those veterans who are suffering from PTSD and how to help them reenter civilian life. After the speaker completed his remarks the Honor Guard made of up Legion and VFW members fired a volley to salute these veterans and Taps were played. So if you know of a veteran, thank them for their service and welcome them home.
Being a veteran who served in Vietnam, it warms my heart when someone approaches me and tells me “thanks for your service and welcome home.” This is a statement that needs to be said to every veteran you know.
The VFW and Legion members also placed small flags on grave sites of passed servicemen at the Winterset Cemetery. Over 750 of these flags were placed. There was also an avenue of Flags at the cemetery honoring those veterans who have passed. Over 550 of these large flags were swaying in the breeze during Memorial Day. Winterset is truly an awesome community!!
Until next month please remember to keep in contact with classmates, plan your next class reunion, support WHS and remain active.
Rod Beem