American Legion Post 28 celebrates veterans
“Thank you for your service” is a simple way to thank someone who served in the armed forces year-round. Veterans Day, however, is a day to be thankful and appreciative of sacrifices made by those still living or who paid the ultimate price.
On Nov. 11, American Legion Post 28 in Oak Orchard honored veterans and remembered comrades who fell in battle or following service to their country.
“This day is special to all veterans, to all of us; it reminds you of what it's all about. It's not a celebration to go party here and party there. It's just to remember all the previous veterans from the beginning to those serving now. It's just a very emotional day for us,” said Post 28 Commander Joe Brown.
The ceremony included a powerful rendition of the national anthem by Marine Corps veteran Sean Jones and a revealing of Post 28’s newest flag: the U.S. Space Force.
The crowd was treated to a history lesson from Karen Knight, who performed as Julia Ward Howe. Howe wrote the Civil War song “Battle Hymn of the Republic” and was inspired by Union soldiers singing “John Brown’s Body” and the powerful image of hundreds of safelights surrounding Washington, D.C. Knight detailed the songwriting process while seamlessly breaking into each verse of the song.
Following the performance, the Post 28 honor guard performed a 21-gun salute and taps was played. Veterans and attendees were treated to a complimentary lunch afterward. For those wishing to pay respect to veterans or honor them for their sacrifices, Brown believes they simply need to show up to events that honor veterans.
“They just need to come to events like this to honor and pay tribute to their family member or friend who may have served. They do not need to be a veteran to come here – this is a special day for families and veterans,” Brown said.
For more information about Post 28, go to alpost28.com. The auxiliary will host an all-day craft fair Saturday, Nov. 18, and have a Thanksgiving dinner for widows of members Sunday, Nov. 19.
