Sussex County Republican Women honor veterans

Sussex County Republican Women's Club members were proud to see the Cape Henlopen High School ROTC at the club meeting Nov. 15 at Kings Creek Country Club in Rehoboth. Led by 1st Sgt. Philip Webb, the four-member team entered in formation for the presentation of colors. The room stood for the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of "It's A Grand Old Flag."

Webb spoke about the mission of the ROTC, which is to help students to become better citizens. Currently there are 232 students in the program. "We must set an example of selfless service for these future leaders," he said. On behalf of the SCRWC, President Cathy Watts, presented Webb with a check for the ROTC Scholarship Fund. A short video was then shown depicting notable Americans, such as the Tuskeegee Airmen, Betsy Ross, soldiers of the Revolutionary War and presidents both past and present, who have contributed to this great nation.

Capt. Michael Trent, USN, Ret., and his wife Camille were the club's honored guests. Both spoke about their time while on active duty. Yes, the wife of a military man is also in the service. She may not wield a gun or have to wake at the sound of reveille, but she has a roll to play. Left alone while Trent was deployed, Camille took command of her household. While watching her non-military neighbors do outside chores or play with their families, she felt lonely and decided to move onto the base to join other Navy wives whose husbands were also hundreds of miles away. These women became family to each other. They all had the same fears and frustrations, so no one felt they were in this alone. The upside of being married to a serviceman is that she traveled to many places and met many people around the world. Michael Trent spent 22 years in the Navy. Over that time he has seen the condition of naval vessels go down, but he says the need for the United States' presence is increasing around the world.

Keynote speaker was 20th District State Rep. Steve Smyk, R-Milton. He noted that military members look to the community at home for inspiration while serving, and a reason to endure. That is why it is so important that people elect leaders who listen and enact laws that their constituents want, not what he or she wants.