Veterans Day observed in Rehoboth
VFW Post 7447 and American Legion Post 5 joined together Nov. 11 to observe Veterans Day on the VFW grounds in Rehoboth Beach, in a smaller ceremony than usual due to COVID-19 precautions.
Attendees applauded VFW Post 7447 Chaplain Greg Gause, who said the nation survived a contentious election in 1800 when the U.S. Constitution was only 13 years old, and survived the Civil War and the injustices of Reconstruction.
“I like to think we will survive the great divide of 2020,” he said. “Take a deep breath and get involved in solutions to help this republic from foundering. We owe it to our veterans who put their lives on the line to preserve our nation.”
VFW Post 7447 Commander Bill Wood said the sacrifices of veterans have kept America safe and free, and the mission of the 1.5 million VFW and auxiliary members is to care for those who served. With 2020 an unusual year due to COVID-19, isolation and the aftermath of quarantine, Wood said, it might have been easier to forget about observing Veterans Day.
“I am honored you have taken the time to ensure this Veterans Day is special,” he said.
Lt. Col. Ronald Erale of the Cape Henlopen JROTC Battalion, presented senior Lauren Melton with the 2019-20 JROTC Cadet of the Year Award. Erale said Melton has grown tremendously into a leadership role within the battalion and has volunteered more than 100 hours to the community in a little over two years. Melton said she plans to attend fire school and hopes to become an EMT.
Keynote speaker Buddy Clark spoke about the Weekend Warrior Program, which gives injured active duty soldiers and their families an expense-free weekend of relaxation and fun in places like Philadelphia, Chincoteague, Hershey Park and Rehoboth Beach. Donations are accepted at warriorweekend.net.
