PHOTO COURTESY OF JEANNE PAUSTIAN

GLADBROOK – The Gladbrook American Legion Auxiliary Veterans Day program held on Monday, Nov. 17, began with Unit President Jeanne Paustian stating, “Today we recognize our military men and women and veterans with a big thank you for your service. We will never forget our veterans that have passed on to the Post Everlasting.”

Special guest 3rd District Vice Commander Jeff Large, Tama, read a message from Dept. Commander Darrin Alderson. County and Post Commander Ron Busch also spoke. The Gladbrook Post had two State Commanders present, Carroll Wegner and Richard Denbow.

For the program, ALA Americanism Chr. Lisa Reinhard talked about her trips to Egypt and Iceland. Everyone was amazed to hear about all the temples and tombs in Egypt including “King Tut.” Our veterans were surprised that Iceland has no military, so if they need help they contact the United States.

Paustian read a quote by President John F. Kennedy: “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”

We live in a free country because of our veterans, so in their honor the military songs were sung. The veterans stood for their branch of service and the other family members waved their hands. Most of the veterans present served in the U.S. Army.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JEANNE PAUSTIAN

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

Hostesses were Linda Lohse, Marilyn Carstensen and Trudi Scott, with help from other members.