Veteran’s Day observance in Emery County

By PATSY STODDARD

The American Legion hosted a Veteran’s Day program to honor local veterans at the Veteran’s monument in Castle Dale.
Commander Ray Quinn welcomed everyone to the event. He began by asking the veterans present to stand and be recognized.
Commissioner Jeff Horrocks spoke to the audience. He is a veteran of the Coast Guard. He told the story of Van Barfoot a retired colonel and veteran. He served his country in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. He lived in Virginia where he refused to take down his flag pole that he’d installed in his yard. It was against the homeowners association contract. He fought for the right to fly the flag.
“America sends her children to far off lands to help them, World War I and II, the Korean War, the Vietnam war. Our young men and women go to fight and to protect.”
“Sen. Colin Powell was asked if the war in the Middle East was a land grab. He replied that all America has ever asked for was just enough land to bury our dead in their country. There are thousands of veterans buried over seas. May they rest in peace. God bless our veterans and bless those missing in action. May we remember the veterans on this special day and on every day. May God bless this great land and may we all volunteer to keep her strong,” said Commissioner Horrocks.
Blake Jones gave his rendition of the Ragged Old Flag accompanied by Eldon Holmes on the guitar.
Commander Quinn said that some paid the ultimate price for our freedom. Americans have been sent to fight in foreign lands they knew nothing about.
“War hasn’t ended, there are still conflicts today. People have given their lives for the freedoms we have today. Americans have traveled to foreign soils to fight to avoid conflicts on American soil. Many veterans were not honored when they came back from the Vietnam war. It was a very unpopular war. But, those veterans are honored now. They have their own national memorial.
There are soldiers in 100 countries at this time fighting for and maintaining freedoms. They go to do a job and then come home to their loved ones. Today we honor our veteran’s. Thanks for your service and your acts of bravery in each of our wars,” said Commander Quinn.
The Castle Dale Elementary students sang each of the songs from the military including the Army, Coast Guard, Marines, Navy and Air Force, The first grade sang, You’re a grand old flag and marched around the monument waving their flags. The sixth grade sang, “God Bless the USA.”
Commissioner Horrocks thanked everyone for coming and the Castle Dale Elementary students that performed, saying they were awesome.
“We honor those who fought and those who didn’t come home and are buried overseas. Thank you for the program,” said Commissioner Horrocks.
The American Legion auxiliaries prepared refreshments for all in attendance and the Museum of the San Rafael was open for people to walk through.