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Happy Veterans Day...an email to my Dad
My Dad is a Veteran of the Korean War where he earned the Bronze Star, the Silver Star and the Purple Heart. I thank him for his service, and for the example he set for me. Following is my email to him this morning.
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Good morning, Dad,
I went to the Veterans Day Ceremony at Templeton Middle School this morning. I was overwhelmed.
They escorted Veterans to the program and pinned us with a white corsage with red, white and blue ribbons, then escorted us to special seating. The local VFW Honor Guard posted the Colors while the school band played patriotic songs, culminating in the National Anthem. After the Pledge a Captain from a Wisconsin Reserve Unit spoke about their missions during their year in Iraq. Video tributes were played. Each of us Veterans were introduced and recognized briefly, then we stood when the Anthem of our branch of service was played.
There were 11 chimes and a moment of silence after laying a ceremonial wreath. Then taps, call and response on bugles.
Two VFW Auxillary Essay Contest Winners spoke about "Who are Today's Patriots?", including your granddaughter, Kathryn - Katie Klein, the final (and if I may say so, most wonderful) speaker. She was brilliant, with a commanding presence and voice...and I don't think that's just a Dad talking.
Finally God Bless America, and Retiring the Colors. Veterans were invited to stay for refreshments, but after telling Kathryn how moved I was by the whole ceremony, especially her address, I left for work. As I walked out people said, "Thank you" instead of good-bye.
The only thing that could have made it better is if you'd been there, too, Dad.
Happy Veterans Day.
Yours,
Keith
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