Veterans present, first row (l-r), Westbrook residents Elgin Spence, Gerald Claussen, Chuck Delfs, Paul Purvis, and Allen Eggers; back row, Loran Frericks and Dennis Haack. Not pictured Westbrook resident Donald Downs. PHOTO COURTESY OF JEANNE PAUSTIAN

The Gladbrook American Legion Auxiliary hosted a Veterans Day Program at Westbrook Acres on Friday, November 11. Americanism Chairman Lisa Reinhard was in charge of the program. Pianist Sue Koster got everyone into the spirit by playing a medley of patriotic music.

Lisa welcomed a large crowd of Veterans, their families, and community members. She stated that Veterans Day gives Americans a chance to pay tribute to all service men and women. She quoted a statement from President John F. Kennedy, “As we express our gratitude, you must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”

Lisa read the names of all Veterans present. Jeanne Paustian and Jolene Denbow pinned a poppy boutonniere on each Veteran. The military songs were sung.

Lisa stated that on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 an armistice was declared between the Allied nations and Germany in the First World War. This was the beginning of honoring our Veterans on their special day. Although we reserve just this one day to specifically recognize the brave men and women who protect us, let us always keep them in our prayers. Let us ever be mindful that our servicemen and women are the ones who allow us to continue enjoying the freedoms that so many take for granted; they are the ones who protect our land, our liberties, our families, and you and me. They give of their time, their families sacrifice time without them, and many Veterans have paid the ultimate price.

The program ended with all joining hands and singing “God Bless America.”

Americanism Chairman Lisa Reinhard. PHOTO COURTESY OF JEANNE PAUSTIAN

Refreshments of patriotic cupcakes were served by Jolene, Jeanne, and Lisa.