Op-Ed Contributor The Forever War of the Mind

New York Times -

Nov-07-2009

Op-Ed Contributor The Forever War of the Mind

(topic overview)
CONTENTS:

Feeling guilty and pressed for time, some around the country are trying to make amends, to honor the veterans of that controversial war. (More...)
If you hear a band playing or read about a small ceremony honoring veterans go there and say thank you to the men and women who have given so much for your rights and freedoms. (More...)
The ceremony is scheduled for 10:15 a.m. at the park where a veterans monument has been under development with seven rectangular stones: One for veterans and six for the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and National Guard. (More...)
For that reason, Nov. 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of "the war to end all wars." (More...)
The Post reopened four years ago, said Covell, and it now has about 100 members. (More...)
A member of the auxiliary will be posted at the gazebo in Confederate Park before, during and immediately after the parade to accept donations of items for the soldiers. (More...)

SOURCES

FIND OUT MORE ON THIS SUBJECT

Feeling guilty and pressed for time, some around the country are trying to make amends, to honor the veterans of that controversial war. As Veterans Day approaches Nov. 11, this small, northern Ohio city is hosting a parade on Saturday exclusively to honor the Vietnam vets. Leading the procession will be a horse-drawn wagon bearing an empty, American flag-draped coffin in memory of those killed in that war. At least two F-16 Air National Guard fighter jets will fly over and three high school bands will march down Main Street, past storefront windows painted with "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans," past Napoli Pizza, the Black Fork Bookstore and in the shadow of a towering grain elevator. [1] Saturday's parade in the city of Shelby will be the latest in a recent flurry of celebrations around the country. Experts say Americans are perhaps feeling regret over how Vietnam veterans have been treated, especially since they enthusiastically salute soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Leading Shelby's procession will be a horse-drawn wagon bearing an empty, American flag-draped coffin in memory of those killed in Vietnam. At least two F-16 Air National Guard fighter jets will fly over and three high school bands will march down Main Street.[2]

The war ended in 1973. The reception given then to veterans — from being ignored to being attacked — is in stark contrast to what soldiers find now when they return home. Thousands of people lined the streets of Colorado Springs and filled a stadium in Indianapolis this year to welcome veterans back from Iraq. A group of volunteers welcomes returning veterans daily at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, giving them standing ovations and buying their meals. Veterans of more recent conflicts feel the pain of their Vietnam-era comrades. "Every other group seems to have had their parade or their day," said Scott Hendrickson, 35, who served in Kosovo. "I personally think the American people — everyone included — are looking back on that and realizing they were selfish in those days. "It's just been an injustice to thank everyone who's coming home now and not remember everyone who served."[1] Ceremonies at the east steps of the Marshall County Courthouse on Lewisburg's public square will be at 11 a.m., in keeping with the tradition started with the signing of the armistice to end World War I on Nov. 11, 1918. The speaker on the square is to be Edwin Scott who served as a technician in the Signal Corps during World War II. He was a commander of the American Legion here for three years. "I'm going to say a little bit about how Tennessee got to be the Volunteer State and about the names on those monuments down there on the square," said Scott, 88, of 1224 Cedar St. The American Legion Post in Lewisburg coordinates the ceremonies and the Veterans of Foreign Wars hosts a catfish lunch at its lodge on East Church Street after the program.[3] This year, World War II veterans will be co-grand marshals of the parade sponsored by Nogales Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2066 and the American Legion Ridge Igo Post 23.[4]

Police escort; parade color guard; wreath bearer; speaker Col. Provancha; Chaplain Rev. Lawton Jacobs; and honorary parade marshal and Korean War veteran, George Gearhart. In the event of rain, the service will take place at 11 a.m. at Burt J. Asper American Legion Post 46, 755 Philadelphia Ave. - Korean War memorial dedication, following the 11 a.m. service on the square, a new memorial to Korean War veterans and those killed in action will be dedicated at Chambers' Fort Park near the Founding Fathers Statue between Lincoln Way West and King Street; sponsored by Charles Nitterhouse Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1599.[5] A 21-gun rifle tribute using the muzzle loaders of the SUVCW and the M-1s of the St. Johns Honor Guard will be included in the program's agenda. Questions regarding this year's observance may be directed to Dennis Scott at (989) 224-2601 after 6 p.m. This service is being sponsored by American Legion Post 153, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4113 and Disabled American Veterans Chapter 64.[6]

The Vietnam Veterans of America hosted a ceremony Thursday at the American Legion Post 1700 in Endicott. Seven veterans were awarded with medals for serving the nation in its greatest time of need. "They deserve to be honored. They served our country and they may have not been honored for anything when they got through with their service. It's important to honor them now," said Larry Holdredge with the Vietnam Veterans of America.[7] American Legion Post 85 will host a flag raising and folding ceremony at 11:11 a.m. on Nov. 11 at Monument Park in honor of Veterans Day.[8] Area schools have announced their plans for Veterans Day, Nov. 11. West Salem High School will conduct its ceremony to honor those who've sacrificed for our country in the Heider Center. It's set to begin at 11 a.m., with the presentation of the colors by the West Salem American Legion. That will be followed with a talk by math teacher Eric Wiggins.[9]

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month Wednesday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. American Legion Post No. 144 of Scituate will host its fourth Veterans Day event.[10]

The ceremony begins at 11:11 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park. West Milford Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7198 Commander Pat Loughman speaks before those who attended the 2008 Veterans Day Ceremony at Veterans' Park. Veterans group leaders ask that as many people as possible join them on Wednesday morning to honor those who gave their lives fighting for the nation in its wars.[11] The city will host a ceremony at 10 a.m. Saturday (Nov. 7), featuring the dedication of a new artillery piece at the Veterans Memorial at City Centre Park. Former Veterans Memorial Commission Chairman Bill Rupp will be honored for his service in World War II, his work as chairman of the St. Peters Veterans Commission and his service to the community. Robert Panke and radio personality Paul Arca, both Vietnam veterans, will speak.[12] Siettmann wanted it known that Mayor Funkhouser did attend a Memorial Day observance at the Vietnam Memorial last spring. That was when veterans and other participants reported ugly block splotches on the bottoms of the reflecting pools, just one of a number of signs of long deferred maintenance. Randy Barnett, president of the Kansas City Chapter of Vietnam Veterans of America, confirmed seeing Funkhouser at the Memorial Day observance; he added, however, that the veterans committee had already been notified by Funkhouser'''s office that the mayor would not attend a Veterans Day observance Nov. 11 at the memorial. In a separate interview, George Biswell, 1st vice president of the Vietnam Veterans of America and a landscape inspector for the Parks Dept., who has led a months-long but quiet veterans''' campaign to restore the Vietnam Memorial, said his remark about the mayor'''s indifference to the memorial had to do with a lack of concern and action, not attendance or lack of attendance at the Memorial Day observance.[13]

Wednesday: The Girard Veterans Council will conduct Veterans Day services beginning at 6 p.m. with a parade that will start at the corner of Broadway and Market and proceed to the Girard Viaduct for a wreath service. It will then proceed to the War Memorial in front of City Hall via High and Main Streets.[14] HARTFORD - The 10th annual Connecticut Veterans Day Parade will make its way through the city's downtown Sunday beginning at 1 p.m. as more than 4,000 marchers take to the streets near the Capitol. Organizers say they expect more than 25,000 spectators at the parade, which features a "special salute" to veterans who served during the Vietnam War.[15]

A significant number of soldiers leaving the military suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder or major depression. Whether you support recent wars or not, it is time we have an honest conversation about the effects of combat on our servicemen and women and their families. There will be an opportunity to do this on Veterans Day, this Wednesday, at the GE Theatre at Proctors, in Schenectady, with the local premiere of the movie "The Good Soldier." After the 7 p.m. showing, a panel of veterans will speak and answer questions about their combat experiences and their reactions to the 79-minute documentary in which five veterans talk candidly about their own experiences. Much like those veterans in the movie, the oldest panelist fought in World War II and the others in Vietnam, Kuwait and Iraq.[16] Thirty years earlier had come the Great War the war to end all wars. Or so they thought at the time. Anyway, all of those veterans are gone now, just as in about 30 years from now, all our World War II veterans will be gone, too. Next week, on Wednesday, the nation will observe Veterans Day, "a celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good." That celebration rose out of the end of World War I. Originally known as Armistice Day, it marked the effective end of that war on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of 1918, when an armistice ending hostilities took effect.[17] Yet, the Veterans Day holiday remains for some merely a day off work or away from school. It is a time when some of us simply forget to remember. Once Veterans Day was called Armistice Day after World War II. It was called the war to end all wars. Maybe this year we will look back at veterans who have served us before and give more thought to those who are serving now.[18]

World War II happened with over 292,000 Americans killed in battle. The question of how to pay tribute to them was answered in a proposal made by Representative Edwin K. Rees of Kansas. His suggestion was to change Armistice Day to Veterans Day, making it an occasion to honor those who have served the United States in all its wars and paid the supreme sacrifice of losing their lives.[11] An Act of Congress approved May 13, 1938, made the 11th of November in each year a legal holiday a day to be dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be thereafter celebrated and known as "Armistice Day." Armistice Day was primarily a day set aside to honor veterans of World War I, but in 1954, after World War II had required the greatest mobilization of our military,the 83rd Congress, at the urging of the veterans service organizations, amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word "Armistice" and inserting in its place the word "Veterans." With the approval of this legislation on June 1, 1954, Nov. 11 became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.[19] Veterans' Day was originally called Armistice Day, a day to honor and remember the ending of World War I, officially Nov. 11, 1918, and was a U.S. legal holiday dedicated to the "cause of world peace."[20] Armistice Day was made a legal holiday by act of Congress in 1938, and changed to Veterans Day to honor all who served by another act of Congress in 1954. In 1971, in a move to try to create three-day holidays, Congress moved the observance of Veterans Day to a Monday, but on Sept. 20, 1975, President Gerald Ford signed a law returning it to its traditional Nov. 11 observance. As Veterans Day comes this year, let us be mindful that there are currently 23,442,000 living veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. Of those, 8 percent, or 1,802,000, are women.[17]

NW GUILFORD - On Nov. 11, Americans across the nation will honor the service and sacrifices of Armed Forces veterans with parades and ceremonies. Veterans Day, first established as Armistice Day in 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson, was created to honor those who died in the nation's service.[21] This Wednesday, November 11th we will celebrate Americans who have honorably served our nation in the armed forces as we observe Veterans Day. Formerly known as Armistice Day, this was the date that the truce was signed by the Germans in 1918, ending World War I. To celebrate the significance of that day, Congress signed a bill in 1938 that made November 11th, "Armistice Day": a day 'dedicated to the cause of world peace" and a day to honor those who served in WWI.[22] For every Armistice Day, later known as Veterans Day (as of 1954), the band has performed to honor not only the veterans of World War I, but all veterans of American history. It is the band's longest standing musical engagement.[23]

'''Pay honor to the veterans,''' urged Bob Eason, commander of Post 22. Veterans Day, or Armistice Day, has its origins in the culmination of World War I when an armistice was reached between the Allied and Central Powers to end the four-year conflict on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. It has been celebrated ever since.[24]

Veterans Day has come around again as it does every fall, arriving with a new crispness in the air, the woods painted in glorious color and the days of a year that seemed new just yesterday now dwindled to a precious few. If none of those signs had signaled its arrival, the advertising of big sales at the malls would have reminded those without more personal and less commercial ties to military service. In this year the last living British veteran of World War I died.[25] Military service today is reserved for the few who volunteer, unlike the days of big wars and conscription or the draft, which filled the ranks with millions of young men. Today in this nation of 300 million fewer than 1 percent wear the uniform, and, with their families, bear all the burden and sacrifice of protecting and defending the rest of us who give little thought to those who pay the price for our freedom. It isn't right and it certainly isn't what those bold revolutionaries who ripped a continent out of the hands of a king at the risk of their own lives and property intended for the nation they created. The least the rest of us can do is show a bit of gratitude and respect for our veterans, old and new, and for those serving under our flag today on foreign fields of battle. They don't start the wars. That's up to the political chickenhawks who so proudly and loudly bang the drums and march the sons and daughters of other, quieter citizens off to bloody battle. If there was a fair and equitable requirement for national service - if they had some skin in the game - I wonder how they would vote on those resolutions enabling and paying for our wars without end.[25]

Show your appreciation on Veterans Day As you read this, men and women are deployed in Afghanistan and Iraq becoming the nation's newest generation of war veterans. They make up our nation's all volunteer military and we should be proud of how they defend freedom. They are as well trained and dedicated as any Marines, soldiers, sailors and airmen that America has ever had defending her. Seriously wounded soldiers sent stateside to recover want to return to the battlefield to support their comrades.[26] As the sun reaches high in the sky today, a parade of special significance will begin along Hannibal's traditional parade corridor. The honorees are veterans those who have served in this country's armed forces, patriotically giving of themselves in exchange for national security. Those veterans served in Korea and Iraq, Germany and Afghanistan, Vietnam and Japan. They took the red, white and blue with them wherever they went sea or shore defending both their homeland and our personal freedom. Today, while the nation mourns the tragedy at Fort Hood, and while countless thousands serve in the Middle East, a parade will commence down Broadway to the east, with flags waving and old men saluting and children placing their hands on their hearts. While Veterans Day isn't until next Wednesday, today is a day to recognize those men and women young and old, retired and active who have made sacrifices for the rest. Today is a day to proudly wear the colors that symbolize America, and to show pride and gratitude to those who stepped forward to serve. It is a day to wave flags and applaud those along the parade route. Because if it wasn't for those who serve, there would be no celebration.[27] About 1 million troops have served in Iraq and Afghanistan wars, but only 120,500 have sought treatment from Veterans Affairs since 2002, according to an agency spokeswoman. Retired Army Maj. Sudip Bose, a Chicagoan who served in Iraq as a battalion surgeon, said soldiers have difficulty admitting they need help: "Someone who was a company commander may not want to sit in that waiting room and get help. It's viewed as a sign of weakness, which is unfortunate because it's a normal reaction." Therapy through the Soldiers Project is provided in an intimate environment and is confidential, which may be key for active-duty soldiers who fear being ostracized by their peers, said Judy Broder, founder of the Soldiers Project in Los Angeles. Appointments can be made within a few days, she said. The Soldiers Project also helps veterans get services they are entitled to from the VA, from employment counseling to head-trauma rehabilitation. Some young veterans can be intimidated by the VA, especially when they see older veterans struggling with the effects of war, said Buwalda. "It scares them a lot. They're like, 'Oh my God, after 40 years these people are still like this. It's been 40 years. That's going to be me,' " she said. The VA has made efforts to increase its mental health clinicians, while growing its capacity to treat veterans with prolonged exposure and cognitive behavior therapy, a spokeswoman said.[28] A newspaper story about the parade'''s woes two days before the event brought a flurry of late contributions, and the parade attracted an estimated 15,000 people. This year'''s parade will honor veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.[29] The parade will include flyovers by military aircraft and other events to honor veterans. "We hope to give these veterans a heartfelt Connecticut 'welcome home' that many of them never received," Linda S. Schwartz, the state's commissioner of veterans' affairs, said in a statement. She was an Air Force nurse during the Vietnam War. About 300,000 veterans live in the state, the parade's organizers said, and those marching in the parade are expected to include those who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan.[15] Whether your father or grandfather was a World War II, Vietnam or Korean War veteran or your friend's brother, sister, son or daughter served in Iraq or Afghanistan, we have all been touched by a veteran or someone who is an active member of the military. These men and women have sacrificed a portion, and in some cases their entire lives so that other Americans never have to feel the fears or see the horrors that go hand-in-hand with war.[30] Charles M. Province, a veteran of the U.S. Army, wrote, "It is the soldier, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press; it is the soldier, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech; it is the soldier, not the campus organizers, who have given us the freedom to demonstrate; it is the soldier who salutes the flag, who serves the flag and whose coffin is draped by the flag, who allows the protester to burn the flag." This Wednesday, we will honor all of those soldiers who have served this country and our flag from World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War and the current war on terrorism.[20]

Secretary of the State Susan Bysiewicz will conduct a ceremony honoring more than 40 World War II veterans from Thompson at a public service at 2 p.m. Monday at the Library Community Center in North Grosvenordale. Local Applebee's chains are offering a free meal to veterans and current military personnel as a way to say 'thanks' for their service to the country.[8] Thursday, November 5, 2009 Next week, communities across Barry County will take time to honor the men and women who have served our country in the United States Armed Forces. Community members will gather to salute veterans of several wars and those who have served during times of peace. In doing so we will also honor the families who have selflessly supported loved ones sent to foreign lands to protect our freedom and those who have left their own families to travel with their loved ones to military bases around the world. Although I did not grow up in a military family and have never directly felt the sacrifice that these men and women and their families make, Ihave great respect for all veterans.[30] The applications will be screened to confirm military active duty status, time served in the Persian Gulf War, Iraq and Afghanistan, service locations and other information. The Department of Veterans Services will need to hire temporary workers when it begins accepting applications for these bonuses. Gravelle said he can't say at this point how many additional workers will be needed or how long they'll be needed. "We have six or eight current staff members working on implementation," he said.[31]

Staton said Vietnam veterans have been thanking him, some in tears. "These guys have wounds, I think, very deep in their soul," he said. Jim Watkins, who served in Vietnam with the Navy, said he was devastated by war protesters when he returned home and for several years wouldn't tell anyone about his Vietnam service. The 60-year-old Norwalk man said he has never received an official welcome home and plans to attend Saturday's parade.[1] Vietnam vets have been honored in recent years with a Welcome Home parade in Las Vegas and a homecoming celebration in Indianapolis; Minnesota has designated a Vietnam Veterans Day that falls on March 29 each year. Experts believe the warmup is being fed by the outpouring of support for current veterans that provokes a tinge of guilt and regret over how Vietnam veterans were treated — especially with time running out to thank them now.[1]

Veterans Day will be celebrated a bit early this year as the organization, Veterans Celebrate Freedom stage their second annual Slidell Veterans Day Parade Sunday afternoon. This year's parade will honor all veterans who fought in the Korean War.[32] In honor of Veterans Day, let's salute our servicemen and women with these five memorable shows about the five major U.S. conflicts of the past hundred years. Network TV really was different back in the day: CBS actually devoted an hour of weekly prime time to this documentary series pegged to the 50th anniversary of what was once known as The Great War. Robert Ryan ("The Wild Bunch") narrated. Rick Jason and Vic Morrow starred in this realistic portrayal of a U.S. Army platoon fighting its way across Europe after D-Day.[33]

Parade units will begin forming in the parking lot behind the Wilson Center at 10:30 a.m. The featured speaker for this year's observance will be Craig Whitford, Commander of the George W. Anderson Camp 58 of the Sons of the Union Veterans of the Civil War. This year's ceremonies will correspond with the 200th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln, so it seems very appropriate that the Civil War veterans be tied to this particular day, a day originally selected to honor the end of WWI, the war to end all wars.[6] This Saturday, for its 44th year, Auburn has the honor of hosting the official regional Veterans Day parade.[34] VA Veterans Day Parade 2009: 11 a.m. Nov. 11. Honor veterans on their special day at the VA Veterans Day parade.[35] Veterans Day is observed on Nov. 11, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls. The observance not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day a celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.[19] The Marion Star has again assembled dozens of stories and photos for our third annual "Salute To Veterans" publication. This special tribute is dedicated to those who serve our country and will be delivered with the Star on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.[31]

MARION - Charles Van Voorhis will present the featured address at the Marion Veterans Day service being held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, at Veterans Park on Delaware Avenue.[31] The fifth grade will also perform several patriotic songs. ''' Mapleton Elementary School will celebrate Veterans Day with a service 9:30 a.m. Nov. 11.[24] A number of other local events will be held in observance of Veterans Day. ''' The Montgomery County High School JROTC will host a service 9 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 5, in the '''The Barn''' at MCHS. ''' McNabb Middle School will host three concerts in remembrance of Veterans Day.[24] The special events for veterans aren't limited to the weekend. Nov. 10, Sneads High School will have a Veterans Day program in the school auditorium at 11 a.m. Lunch will follow for all veterans and their families. On Tuesday, neighboring Grand Ridge School will have a 9:30 a.m. Veteran's Day program in its new gymnasium. All veterans, their families and the general public are encouraged to attend. Following the ceremony, brunch will be offered in the media center for veterans and their spouses.[36]

Auburn High School hosts a band Field Show Competition after the parade, with proceeds to benefit the school band program. Other events in Auburn include the American Legion Breakfast, Lions Club Luncheon (registration form available online at auburnwa.gov ), and a veterans-only open house at the Auburn Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).[34] The Bangor Veterans Day ceremonies will be held at the Middle School, with the high school band and choir performing and presentation of the colors and saluting of the flag conducted by members of the Bangor VFW and the American Legion.[9]

Madisonville's Veteran's Day Parade is sponsored by American Legion Post 6 and VFW Post 5480 and is considered to be the largest in the state.[37] Registration is not required for the parade and lineup starts at 10:45 a.m. at National City Bank, 107 E. Vienna St., Clio. Davison: VFW Post 4087 will conduct a Veterans' Day service at its post, 9474 Lapeer Road., at 10 a.m., followed at 11 a.m. with a public ceremony at the Davison Municipal Center.[38] VFW Commander Joe Diaz said the traditional Memorial Day ceremony will be held following the parade at the Veterans Memorial Wall at Nogales City Hall.[4] Clio: The eighth annual Veterans' Day parade kicks off Wednesday at National City and ends at Veterans Memorial Park.[38]

Stuart: United Veterans of Martin County will host a parade beginning at 10 a.m. and ending at Veterans Memorial Park on East Ocean Boulevard for the ceremony at 11 a.m.[19] A Veterans Remembrance Ceremony with wreath placement, salute and lighting of the flame at Veterans Memorial Park precedes the parade.[34]

Residents are invited to honor those who have served in the military Saturday, during a Veterans Day ceremony at the San Marcos All-Veterans Memorial.[39] Veterans Day itself brings the majority of remembrance events. The Joint Veterans Council of Carlisle will conduct its annual Veterans Day ceremony in the courtroom on the second floor of the Old Courthouse at 10:30 a.m. The Cumberland County Honor Guard will provide the firing squad and bugler.[40] In the Mechanicsburg area, VFW Post 7530 will conduct a Veterans Day ceremony starting at 11 a.m. at 4545 Westport Drive In the event of bad weather, the ceremony will be held inside the post.[40]

Participate in the Veterans Day 5K run at 7:30 a.m., a family fitness walk at 7:35. A pancake breakfast is served at 8 a.m. and a Veterans Day ceremony begins at 8:45 a.m. Peoria High School ROTC presents the colors and Mayor Bob Barrett and other dignitaries recognize veterans for their service.[35] Wednesday: Roosevelt Elementary School, 110 Orchard Ave., Veterans Day assembly. 1:45 p.m., for students, military personnel and veterans of any war or conflict. Wednesday: Newton Falls High School Senior Class is hosting its annual Veterans Day assembly. 9 a.m. Veterans will be recognized with stories, poems, dance, videos and gifts.[14]

Last year's parade honored veterans of World War II. The parade starts at Slidell High School at 1 p.m. Sunday and will wind down Gause Boulevard to Front Street, then to Pontchartrain Drive and finish at Salmen High School on Spartan Drive.[32] Special seating will be provided on Main Street, across from the parade review stand on the courthouse lawn, for World War II and Korean War veterans and handicapped persons, Henley said.[37]

Monday: Forty veterans will be recognized at Shepherd of the Valley in Howland, 4100 North River Road N.E., during a 3 p.m. Veterans Day program with the theme of '''Remembering Courage, Honoring Sacrifice.''' They include five women, a World War II Air Force bomber pilot, two POWs.[14] For many veterans, the day is an intensely private one spent remembering fallen comrades alone or in the company of fellow veterans who were fortunate enough to make it home. "I think it's great when veterans and their families celebrate Veterans Day, because they understand," says Summerfield's Bob White, who served in the Army during the Korean War. "They know what it's about. Sometimes it's hard to put into words how you feel about Veterans Day, because it has different meanings for different people. For veterans and for the families of veterans, it's an important day.[21] Nearly 40 percent of our veteran population is 65 or older. And, as Veterans Day approaches, take time to thank a veteran for his or her service to our nation. For without their sacrifice and willingness to give their lives in our defense, America today would be a far different place. Time that passes can never be recaptured, and the time will come when it is too late to express those thanks. And, in the case of the generation of veterans I grew up with those who served in Vietnam who knows, it might just be something no one has ever said to them before.[17] Charlie Branaugh, Yankton Veterans Day is a time set aside to remember those who helped us through times we would like to forget. The fact that on this day, one day of the year, we are asked to pause and reflect upon the services and sacrifices of those who have defended our country a small price to pay.[18] When the world needs a hand, the world looks to the United States, and we look to our military to step up and help where necessary. You have a whole week to do your part, find a veteran, find lots of veterans, and thank them for giving a part of themselves, mental or physical, and the time -- something they'll never get back -- that they spent away from family and friends, away from the security of home, in order to best serve our country's needs. Thank them and appreciate all of their sacrifices. This is the least we can do on Veterans Day.[20]

Scottish American Military Society members Bob Dunning, left, George C. Campbell and William King participate in a flag folding ceremony at the Veterans Day Ceremony at Avondale Civic Center on Tuesday, November 11, 2008.[35] Veterans Day Ceremony, Museum of Flight: Performance by the Boeing Employees' Concert Band, noon Wednesday; U.S. veterans and current U.S. military personnel admitted to the museum free of charge, 9404 E. Marginal Way S., Seattle, 206-764-5720 or www.museumofflight.org.[34] Do something special to honor Veterans on Veterans Day, record a Veteran's history. Saturday: The Navy National UDT Seal Museum will host its annual Veteran's Day ceremony which features the U.S. Navy Parachute Team,and other demonstrations.[19] Avondale's Veterans Day Ceremony pays tribute to community members who have served in the U.S. armed forces.[35] Tom Sweeney, a Navy veteran, will give a history of Veterans Day. That will be followed by two minutes of silence at 11 a.m. The colors will be presented by student members of the newly formed U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corp., Battleship Wisconsin Division that was recently relocated to La Crosse.[9]

Brunner hopes the theme will help a new generation of service members connect with the Veterans Day tradition. He said the financial picture has improved this year, too.[29] The Cassville Democrat staff would like to join area school districts and communities in saluting our veterans, not only next week on Veterans Day, but throughout the year. We understand that the sacrifices of each of these men and women have helped protect all of our rights, including the First Amendment, which gives us the opportunity to continue to publish a newspaper with commentary pieces and editorials like this one. To all our local veterans and their families, thank you for your sacrifice and service.[30]

The VFW is offering a free year if you join at Cambier Park on Wednesday morning. The Marine Corps League is offering a gift certificate to one of its monthly social dinners for applicants signing up on Veterans Day. These offers are all worth about $35.[41] Bob Harkins of the Navy and Gary Vitty and George Dunlap of the Army perform the rifle salute during last year'''s Scituate Veterans Day ceremony.[10]

The guest speaker is state Sen. Joe Schiavoni of Canfield, D-33rd. Local veterans and their families are invited to attend. Saturday: Beaver Township will have its annual Veterans Day program at the Veterans Memorial at state Routes 164 and 165, at 1 p.m. Jim Olive, an Army veteran and coordinator of the Veteran Affairs Office at Youngstown State University, is the keynote speaker.[14] Solemn moment: ROTC Cadet Lt. Col. Ryan Bocklage, left, places a memorial wreath as Shippensburg University President William Ruud and Cumberland County Commissioner Barbara Cross watch during the Veterans Day service at the college.[5] Nov. 8, Damascus Freewill Baptist Church will have a Veterans Day service honoring military veterans in the morning worship hour at 11 a.m. The church is located at 3700 Kynesville Road.[36] On Sunday, Bethel Baptist Church hosts a special Veterans Day service beginning at 10 a.m., with a patriotic musical program and salute to veterans and active military.[36]

Poppy Days in Ramona: Members of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3783 will be at various stores and banks in Ramona and San Diego Country Estates today, tomorrow and Sunday to accept donations for Buddy Poppy, a national program that helps disabled and other needy veterans. (760) 789-0831.[29] The third float will be with veterans of American Legion Post 185, and the fourth float will have members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5735 and the Slidell Noon Lions Club.[32] Many of the 4,000 veterans who reside in Scottsdale and who are members of the local Disabled American Veterans chapter and Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion posts will be in attendance, along with family and friends.[35]

In Sneads Saturday, the American Legion Auxiliary 241 and the American Legion will honor area veterans with a luncheon from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the post on Legion Road.[36] Rick Romley speaks, the honor guard from American Legion Post #94 is featured, taps are played and a three-volley rifle salutes departed veterans.[35]

American Legion Post No. 144 was first established in the 1930s, said Covell, but when anti-war campaigns made joining veterans associations unpopular in the 1970s, it was disbanded.[10]

On Saturday, the American Legion Auxiliary 100 will be collecting donations for red crepe paper poppies. Members of the organization will be at Grocery Outlet, Winn Dixie, and Big Lots in Marianna from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donations help veterans and their families, and wearing the poppies draws attention to their contributions and sacrifice.[36]

Sunday: W.D. Packard Concert Band will have a concert, '''Duty, Honor, Country''' a tribute to veterans at W.D. Packard Music Hall, 1703 Mahoning Ave. N.W. at 3 p.m. Piccolo soloist is Staff Sgt. Rebecca Davidson, formerly of Boardman, a member of the United States Army Old Guard Fife & Drum Corps, Washington, D.C. Craig Raymaley is narrator. Wednesday: Willard K-8 School, 2020 Willard Ave. S.E., will host a flag-raising ceremony at 9:30 a.m. The flag they will raise was sent from Iraq by Spc.[14] Committee Chairwoman Luanne Hulsizer said Thursday that the event will be casual with a color guard, the raising of American and prisoner-of-war flags, and an address by Mayor Jim Desmond. Participants also will hear the stories of five veterans whose names are engraved on a Wall of Honor at the memorial and a rendition of the poem "Tattered Old Flag," which is based on the lyrics of the Johnny Cash song, "Ragged Old Flag," she said. "(That) is always a very moving and inspiring part of the ceremony," Hulsizer said, referring to the poem.[39] The Redwing Marching Band, under the direction of Roy Davis Jr. will provide the musical portion of the event. Patriotic tunes and national anthems will provide a military atmosphere and demonstrate the continuing support that this organization has annually shown for local veterans. This year's ceremony will honor all veterans who have worn the colors of American warriors - past, present and future.[6]

Day-use entrance to all state parks on Wednesday will be free of charge to everyone, in honor of veterans and active duty military personnel in all branches of service. All other use fees, such as overnight accommodations, cave tours or special events, will be charged.[36]

Close to 3,000 Vietnam Veterans are expected to take part in Saturday's "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Parade," in Shelby. Parade organizer Bill Staton said he has received calls from people across the state who want to participate in the parade in honor of their loved one who served in Vietnam.[42] SHELBY, Ohio — A small city in Ohio plans to honor Vietnam veterans with a parade of their own — recognizing veterans of an unpopular war who have long been ignored.[2]

For the 6th year in a row, we spent time with the residents of the Eagles Nest, the senior home for veterans of World War Two, Korea, Vietnam and now--Iraq and Afghanistan.[43] Lynne Tylke remembers asking an Iraq war veteran in her office to relive his worst day: He and a friend were in a vehicle that exploded after hitting a land mine. His friend, who had offered to switch places and drive, was killed. Racked with guilt when he came home and unable to process the experience, the soldier started taking heroin and cocaine, said Tylke, a Chicago-based clinical social worker and volunteer with the Soldiers Project, an organization that provides free mental health counseling to Iraq and Afghanistan veterans. "He was just completely grief-stricken, guilty, overwhelmed, just unable to integrate that experience," said Tylke. "I try to gently sit with them, to calm down their conscious reaction, so they can feel what it is they're so overwhelmed by." The Soldiers Project was founded in Los Angeles in 2004 to help soldiers manage their many mental health problems.[28] For D.J. Key of Stokesdale, who spent most of 2004 serving in Iraq, remembering the families of fallen service personnel is as important as remembering the personnel themselves. "I feel that families of fallen soldiers and airmen and sailors are just as much a patriot as the people they lost," says Key, an Active Guard Reserve solider with two young children. "Veterans' Day is about fallen soldiers, and they did pay the ultimate price, but families continue to pay the price as they live with (that loss) day in and day out.[21] Will getting veterans to seek and complete therapy. Tylke has not heard from the veteran she was working with since spring. "I think it's a very difficult process, and it's probably one of those things where they enter into it, feel a little bit better. and fluctuate back and forth," she said. "Unfortunately, (seeking therapy) is just very frustrating for a lot of people, and they don't want to stick with this whole process," said Todd Crevier, an Iraq veteran and communications director for the Iraq War Veterans Organization. "It really does come down to the responsibility of the soldiers, the veterans and the family members to say, 'I've got an issue with this, and I need to see a counselor and I need to get things off my chest,'" Crevier said.[28] Massey, a good-old-boy from Texas, has a semi-permanent residence in the hell of post-traumatic stress from killing innocent civilians in Iraq. "The Good Soldier" takes us closer to these anguished souls, distraught from the anguish of combat, than we knew was possible. This is a movie where souls are bared, not for entertainment, but with the slimmest of hopes that we will face the truth before it is too late for ourselves or our children. This movie honors veterans as none other has by allowing them to tell honestly their stories of combat and the continuing trauma of war for them and for their families. It is time we have a truthful conversation and national dialogue. It is time that we stop lying to our children and give them the information they need to make intelligent and thoughtful choices about war and about affirming life.[16]

About 70 percent of Ohio voters approved the bonuses, and it passed in all 88 counties. The sizes of the one-time bonuses that qualifying veterans will receive depends partly on length of time served in those conflicts and if they served in domestic service, foreign service or war zones, Gravelle said in an interview Wednesday.[31] Veterans who served in the Gulf War, Iraq and Afghanistan and the surviving families of those who died should expect to wait for at least a year before they receive the one-time bonuses Ohio voters approved for them Tuesday.[31]

As of a year ago, there were 2,583,000 living World War II veterans, but that number is now about 14,000 fewer.[17] According to Veterans Administration estimates, we are losing our World War II veterans at the rate of about 900 per day.[17] The last American combat veteran of The Great War died in 2007 at age 108. The Greatest Generation veterans of World War II who once numbered 15 million and changed the face of this nation are slipping away fast now.[25] My grandfather, Onel Deal, was a World War II veteran who fought in various locations across Europe. He didn't talk about his service often, but when he did he spoke of the sacrifices made by many of his fallen comrades during the war. Even though he would never have bragged about his service to our country, I know that he and those who fought with him were heroes.[30] Parade Marshals for the parade will be World War II veterans, riding the 40 & 8 engine.[44] Ignacio Servin: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Nov. 10. Ignacio Servin, World War II veteran and recipient of the Silver Star, shares his story in a 45-minute presentation for students in the ESL speaking and listening classes at South Mountain Community College in Room C2-303.[35] Starting in 1991 and continuing to today, the numbers have steadily decreased to about 1.3 million. What do all these numbers mean? It means an aging veteran population whose numbers, as they decrease through death, are not being made up in most veterans organizations. Or maybe it is apathy. The World War II veterans are mostly in their mid- to late 80s, while the very youngest of Vietnam vets are in their mid-50s, with most in the 60 to 65 range.[41]

SHELBY, Ohio — The floor of VFW Post 291 has been scuffed by the shoes and boots of veterans who fought in wars going back nearly a century, to World War I.[1] Parade in Fallbrook: Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1924 will hold a 10 a.m. parade near the downtown square.[29]

ST. JOHNS - Veterans Day ceremonies in St. Johns will take place Wednesday, Nov. 11 beginning with a parade at 11 a.m.[6] Performances by the eighth grade chorus will take place 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 10, and at three Veterans Day assemblies 9:15, 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11. ''' Camargo Elementary School will hold an event 1 p.m. Nov. 11.[24] There will also be a color guard. ''' Mt. Sterling Elementary School was still finalizing its plans this week, but school principal Richard DeAngelis said an event is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Veterans Day.[24]

Kickoff time The event schedule kicks off at 2 p.m. Sunday with the Joint Veterans Council of Shippensburg'''s annual Veterans Day parade.[40] Perhaps the main tribute will take place Wednesday ''' the official Veterans Day ''' with a parade along Pacific Highway in San Diego. '''We'''ve got all these things that are happening, and we have for a long time.[29]

The Veterans Day parade begins at 10 a.m. and will travel down Lafayette Street (U.S. Highway 90).[36] The fifth annual Veterans Day Parade includes a parade at 10 a.m. with floats and music, plus a flyover.[35] All veterans are encouraged to participate in the 2009 Veterans Day Parade scheduled Wednesday in downtown Nogales.[4]

Later, Berkley was a frequent attendee at Memorial Day and Veterans Day observances, as were Mayors Emanuel Cleaver and Kay Barnes. Cleaver, now a member of Congress, still attends these events.[13] I have the utmost respect for each and every veteran who has selflessly served our country, and I am happy to know that I live in an area where schools continue to teach students about Veterans Day. I believe it is very important for each child to understand the sacrifice that has been made on their behalf. Each area student should understand why they are asked to remove their hat and put their hand on their heart when listening to the "Star Spangled Banner."[30] Today, there are more than 25 million American veterans; veterans who have protected our freedom, the security of our country, and the very peace that sometimes we may have taken for granted. Recently, while signing the Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act, President Obama said that on Veterans Day, 'We'll pause to pay tribute to all those who have worn America's uniform.[22]

Troops already in a combat theater are reenlisting to keep up the fight against terrorism. Brave soldiers enter burning military vehicles to get their squad mates out. They refuse treatment to hold their position under fire so others can get to a better protected position. Then there are those who paid the ultimate sacrifice by exposing themselves to danger to help prevent other deaths or to evacuate wounded warriors. On Veterans Day do please something to show your appreciation, respect and support for them.[26] Program at Chinese museum: Annual Veterans Day luncheon at the San Diego Chinese Historical Museum will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The presentation to honor Chinese-American veterans will be in the museum'''s garden, 404 Third Ave., San Diego. (619) 338-9888.[29] Gilbert Veterans Day is held on the lawn at Gilbert's Civic Center to honor veterans.[35]

Midway Museum ceremony: Various activities to honor veterans, who will be given free daytime admission. A dollar from each paid admission on this day, which ranges from $9 to $17, will go to Veterans Village of San Diego.[29] Flint: The University of Michigan-Flint's music department will hold a free Veterans' Day remembrance ceremony performed by the University Chorale at 10 a.m. Wednesday on campus in the Michigan Rooms.[38]

Seating is limited so bring a portable chair. Nov. 7: The Navy National UDT Seal Museum will host its annual Veteran's Day ceremony which features the U.S. Navy Parachute Team,and other demonstrations.[45] Nov. 14, 15: The annual Visiting Nurses Association Air Show provides a tribute to our military members and veterans. On both days, the aerial performances run from 1 to 4:30 p.m. and there will be activities, stunts, exhibits and special guests to meet from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.[19] Nov. 16: Military Appreciation Monday celebration at Golden Corral Restaurant: 5 to 9 p.m. Veterans, retired and active duty members of the U.S. military receive a free 'thank you' dinner buffet and beverage.[19]

Veterans range in age from 18 to 80 and older. Regardless of whether their uniform has hung in a closet for decades or if they wear it today as active service personnel, they share a common bond. They rallied behind their country's call to action so that America, and many other nations worldwide, could live free. Find a way to thank them personally and to support someone in the military. You can do both by visiting www.vfwfoundation.org. Your support of the VFW Foundation will touch the lives of veterans from all service eras including those fighting overseas today.[26] We live in freedom because of our veterans' courage, dedication to duty, and love of country. Please, this Wednesday, take a moment and thank a Vet; and then, as a nation, let's make sure that we uphold our moral obligation with deeds that honor their sacrifice and service.[22]

Washington County Sheriff's Department Honor Guard will salute military service men and women; a speaker will follow; hosted by HCC Veterans Club.[5] More than 200 entries, including marching bands, drill teams, honor guards, military units, veterans groups, military vehicles and community groups, pay tribute to veterans at the mile-long parade.[34]

Mayor James Melfi will speak at the War Memorial and the Girard Veterans Council Honor Guard will fire a rifle salute.[14] As years passed and veterans fought in other wars, leaders of veterans groups urged Congress to change the holidays' name and honor all veterans.[22]

In 1921 an unknown World War I American soldier was buried in Arlington National Cemetery. This site, on a hillside overlooking the Potomac River and the city of Washington, D.C. became the focal point of reverence for those who lost their lives while serving the nation. Similar ceremonies occurred in England where unknown soldiers were buried at Westminster Abby and in France at the Arc de Triomphe. These memorial observances gave universal recognition to the celebrated ending of World War I. Armistice Day officially received its name in the United States in 1926 through a Congressional resolution. It became a national holiday 12 years later by similar Congressional action.[11] You seldom hear old soldiers prescribing war as a solution for anything. Today's wars are bringing home hundreds of thousands of new veterans in dire need of jobs, education, medical and mental health care, and a warm welcome home to a nation grateful for all they have so selflessly given.[25] Boyd was pushed to the brink by a combination of combat stress, guilt and isolation that'''s all too common among soldiers returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan. What saved his life was the love of a new girlfriend, who urged him to move out to California, and the veterans club at Sierra College near Sacramento, where he was able to share his experiences with other veterans and see that he was not alone. Community colleges provide an ideal place for veterans to meet up with others just like themselves and process their combat traumas. Already, the VA reports more than 500,000 returning veterans are using their GI Bill to attend college, a number that'''s expected to swell even higher once the newer, expanded education benefit is fully implemented.[46] Pentagon bean-counters who can easily swallow a new no-bid contract for a contractor already caught stealing millions or billions year after year come up with plans to raise the fees and co-pays for veterans' health care insurance. They also pressure military doctors to search for some pre-existing mental health issue so that they can deny a PTSD claim and throw a soldier out the door with no health benefits. Shame on them for doing that. Shame on us for letting them get away with it.[25]

The events actually began last week with the popular '''Massing of the Colors''' gathering in Balboa Park and a luncheon for military women at Miramar Marine Corps Air Station. Today,the Veterans Museum and Memorial Center will announce its Veteran of the Year.[29] All veterans are invited to participate in the proceedings, including a short march from the Wilson Center to the Clinton County Veterans Memorial, site of the observance. Military vehicles and other transportation will be present to provide rides for those vets wishing to join the parade but who may be unable to walk the entire parade route.[6] Swartz Creek: Mayor Richard B. Abrams will give a tribute to veterans at a Veterans' Day celebration at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Veterans Memorial outside of city hall, 8083 Civic Drive.[38] A veteran also will on hand to speak about the meaning of the day. Coulee Christian School will hold its memorial at 10:45 a.m. in the school's auditorium.[9]

The crowds are diminishing,''' said Joe Brunner, a Veterans Week coordinator and the parade'''s longtime organizer. '''I said, '''Let'''s get them all together and promote the hell out of them.'''''' The parade routinely features several thousand marchers but has suffered from limited funding and spotty attendance during its 20-year history, For several years, contributions from the family foundation of Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Vista, have kept the parade above water. Last year, just days before the parade, Brunner still fell short of his $18,000 budget.[29] In that number will be a Textron Armored Service Vehicle, and two Army Blackhawk helicopters will make a fly by during the parade. DeBouchel said there are more than 27,000 veterans in St. Tammany Parish and everybody should come out and celebrate what these men and women have done for their country. "This is our second year, but will continue it forever," DeBouchel said.[32]

Tribute in Carlsbad: The Rotary Club of Carlsbad and the Army and Navy Academy will hold a ceremony to honor veterans and service members.[29] The Soldiers Project has chapters in several cities, including a Chicago chapter begun in 2007 by Kate Schechter, a faculty member at the Institute for Clinical Social Work and the Rush University Medical College Department of Psychology. "I realized that my students would be inheriting the problem of dealing with traumatized people their age, their peers, coming into the community," she said. "It was kind of a systemic vision of education for the next generation." Although about 80 mental health professionals offer their services in the Chicago area, fewer than 20veterans have enrolled since the program began. Outreach is difficult, said Schechter, because the volunteers have full caseloads at their private practices. Most veterans learn about the program through word of mouth, she said.[28] The Soldiers Project offers free and confidential mental health services for veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan.[28]

One thousand former soldiers receiving care from the Department of Veterans Affairs attempt suicide every month. In January of this year, the Army reports, more of our active duty soldiers killed themselves than died in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan combined. It wasn'''t long ago that T.J. Boyd nearly became one of those statistics.[46] Unfortunately, six years after the U.S. invasion of Iraq, programs like the one at Sierra College are few and far between. To do right by our veterans, we need to increase funding at our community colleges to establish counseling center and clubs for them.[46]

The U.S. Senate passed a resolution on Aug. 4, 2001, designating the week of Nov. 11-17 as National Veterans Awareness Week. I write this today to honor all of the men and women who served this country, affording us the freedoms and liberties that we do take for granted.[20] Veteran's Day ceremonies will be held at 11 a.m. Nov. 11 beginning at Fanning Park.[8] Events for Veterans Week, which begins today and ends Nov. 11, include a dinner and dance, memorabilia displays and the annual parade.[37] Now that your memory is refreshed as to why we celebrate on Nov. 11, please don't forget about the Veterans History Project. This amazing project continues year round; however, this time of year we do receive more inquires on how to be a part of it.[19] "We have about 150 people each year," said Covell. Covell said it's hard to judge exactly how many people will be there because some veterans show up without letting the Post know ahead of time. The post has made efforts to accommodate them.[10] In more modern times during the first Gulf War our veterans reversed Saddam Hussein's takeover of Kuwait, which if allowed to stand would have taken freedom from the Kuwait people and impacted the world economy.[26] War should always be a last resort. I put on a uniform again, when the time comes, such as the Chillicothe Halloween Parade, to march as a veteran, yes, but as a Veteran for Peace. When you see such veterans, remember, we do support the troops.[47]

I appreciate being around other veterans on that day. Those things that are celebrated by veterans for veterans are very meaningful." Danny Nelson, who was drafted into the Army during the Vietnam War, still thinks about the friends he lost, as well as the comrades whose experiences left them forever mentally or emotionally scarred.[21] Deceased Vietnam War veterans, prisoners of war and missing in action are honored by placement of a rose for each at the monument.[14]

For more information, call Dick Guyer at 530-7986, 532-6212 or 262-5120. The Carlisle Vietnam Veterans will conduct their annual all-night vigil, starting at 11 p.m., on the steps of the Old Courthouse at Hanover and High streets to honor and remember all POW-MIAs. The contact for this event is Bob Hinkle at 776-4777.[40] Bucha is a Vietnam veteran and recipient of the Medal of Honor. He was honored for bravery during a 1968 mission near Phuoc Vinh, Binh Duong Province, and is actively involved in national security and veterans' issues, organizers said.[15]

The service honors all veterans with a program of music, military honors, an inspirational message and white doves.[35] There were smaller military actions over the past century, too'in Nicaragua, Grenada, Libya and other places not known by many'when our veterans were the tip of the spear in addressing situations when communist leaders or terrorist states tried to attack freedom. And certainly not least, we owe it to all military families to say thanks for the sacrifices and service they have given. Most married military personnel who are deployed will tell you that the real burden of deployments is on spouses, children and their extended families on the home front.[26]

Traditional Veterans Day ceremonies are planned in Lewisburg for Wednesday and there's also a service planned in Chapel Hill, among other private services.[3] There was a brief time when the government tried to move Veterans Day and make it a 3-day weekend, but that didn't last long.[20] This Veterans Day, let'''s do more to prevent our troops from taking their own lives.[46]

A red convertible featured in the 1986 hit movie "Something Wild" will roll in Saturday's Veterans' Day parade through downtown Marianna.[36] Huber said messages about the parade will be placed in each care package that contains an item donated by a parade watcher or participant. There are several other events going on this weekend and into next week to honor local veterans.[36] As we were there, events were unfolding at Fort Hood. The veterans we met yesterday harbor their own vivid memories of war.[43] Veterans serving during the entire Cold War era kept our armed forces strong enough to preserve peace. Their service no doubt kept more wars from breaking out.[26] Veterans program at 2 p.m., posting of colors, Korean War Veterans 137. (330) 707-1300.[14] Cost is $10 adults, $5 students and free to Korean War veterans and a guest.[5] Our two wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are contributing a smaller but steady stream of new veterans joining the ranks.[25] Grand marshal will be former Marine and Iraq war veteran Nick Popaditch. (619) 244-1886.[29]

If you hear a band playing or read about a small ceremony honoring veterans go there and say thank you to the men and women who have given so much for your rights and freedoms. It will bring a tear to their eyes. Joseph L. Galloway is a military columnist for McClatchy Newspapers and a former senior military correspondent for Knight Ridder Newspapers; he is co-author of the national best-seller "We Were Soldiers Once. and Young." Readers may write to him at: P.O. Box 399, Bayside, Texas 78340. [25] " Key, 33, recently accompanied a group of area veterans to Washington for the Triad Flight of Honor. Listening to the stories of veterans many decades his senior gave him a lot to think about. "It hasn't been until recently that the military has realized the huge role of families in the success of soldiers.[21] Seattle Veterans Museum: Displays to honor local military veterans, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Wednesday, west side of Benaroya Hall on Second Avenue between Union and University streets, Seattle; www.seattleveteransmuseum.org.[34]

Spectators are encouraged to display American flags and names of family members or friends who are veterans or active duty military.[37] Political and military leaders are analyzing and deciding on a future course in Afghanistan that could lock us into years more of combat and many more new veterans.[25] Museum of History & Industry: Free admission for veterans and active military, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday, 2700 24th Ave. E., Seattle, 206-324-1126 or www.seattlehistory.org.[34] Starting Monday, the public is invited to stop by the Madisonville-Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. for a military memorabilia display. County veterans are invited to add their keepsakes, which will be available for viewing through Wednesday.[37] Owosso: Members of the Shiawassee County 9-12 Commission's Protectors of Liberty group will host a patriotic rally to honor veterans from 2-5 p.m. Saturday at Fayette Square, located at the corner of Oliver and North Washington.[38] Following the concert, members of Clay County veterans organizations will present colors and the annual ceremony.[23]

Mechanicsburg Mechanicsburg Area Veterans Council will conduct a ceremony at the Grand Army of the Republic monument in the Mechanicsburg Cemetery at the corner of Frederick and Marble streets starting at 11 a.m. Guest speaker will be Dr. William Harner, superintendent of Cumberland Valley School District and a retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel.[40]

The staging is planned for 9 a.m. on Nov. 11 at the U.S. Post Office and Santa Cruz County Historic 1904 Courthouse and is to begin at 10 a.m. A fly-over by F-16s from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson is scheduled for about 10:15 a.m. The parade route will be south on Morley Avenue to Park Street and then north on Grand Avenue, ending at the Food City parking lot. For the first time, the VFW Riders will participate on their motorcycles.[4] Ceremonies After the parade, memorial military ceremonies will be conducted at the Memorial Wall of Honor in front of City Hall, starting at 11 a.m., followed by a reception at the VFW post home at 11:30 a.m.[44]

The parade is to begin at 10 a.m. and will be headed by a combined American Legion and VFW color guard followed by military units.[44] Students from the North Middle School band will be guest speakers and provide music. Other participants include Mayor Bill Hennessy, the American Heritage Girls Troop 3130, the American Legion Post 388 and the VFW Post 5077 Ladies Auxillary.[12] Post 22 of the American Legion will observe the occasion 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, with a service on the Montgomery County Courthouse lawn.[24] Van Voorhis is past commander of American Legion Post 584. Others involved in the ceremony are Steve Victor, Post 162, as master of ceremony; Sfc.[31]

The American Legion will give the city a new flag for the year at the 15-minute ceremony.[38] Flint: Students in Flint's Junior Navy ROTC program at Northwestern Academy will place new flags in front of City Hall Wednesday during an 8:30 a.m. ceremony.[38]

Ceremony in Oceanside: The Elks Lodge will host a program to honor veterans.[29] The ceremony will honor fallen veterans, current veterans and active-duty personnel, said Covell. "We honor the veterans who've gone before us, and the ones that are still with us," he said.[10]

Honor our veterans at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park at a memorial that includes dignitaries, guest speakers and live performances.[35] '''My perception as a member of the veterans community is I don'''t see we'''ve gotten much interest from the city administration in the maintenance problems of the memorial, much less the other problems many veterans face,''' Biswell said. '''I would say if the mayor'''s press secretary has been following this issue in the KCTribune, then we see no evidence of an effective response to the problem,''' Biswell said.[13] Biswell said that in contrast to Funkhouser, Mayor Dick Berkley, who was in office when the Vietnam Memorial was being built in 1985 and 1986, stopped by daily at a veterans encampment back then at the memorial site, 43rd and Broadway.[13] Let me tell you about a feeling I hope you never experience. It is a place of extreme self-loathing, where a wave of revulsion so thorough and complete sweeps over you, leaving every cell in your body in revolt against its own existence. It is the coldest and blackest of understandings, a monstrous darkness, devouring and overpowering you from the inside out. It is a feeling that touched me when I looked into the anguished eyes of Will Williams, Jimmy Massey and the other veterans in "The Good Soldier." Williams, originally from Mississippi, seems as beautiful now as he was murderous when he served in Vietnam.[16] I'm a graduate student of journalism and yesterday I interviewed a soldier for the first time. It completely changed the way I looked at veterans.[28] "The application process has yet to be developed and nobody can predict how much time will pass between voter approval and the mailing of checks," said department spokesman Jim Gravelle in a prepared statement. "I can tell you that our counterparts in Pennsylvania were pleased that their state began sending checks to their veterans 18 months after their bonus plan was established." Voters gave an emphatic thumbs-up to Issue 1 which will provide at least $106 million in bonuses to an estimated 206,066 Ohio veterans or the surviving families who would qualify for them.[31] The $250,000 project included construction of a Wall of Honor with engraved plaques that bear the names of veterans who lived in San Marcos.[39] Honor veterans and celebrate our country's freedom at Rio Vista Recreation Center in Peoria.[35] More than 200 veteran-themed posters, created by county students, are on display at Parkway Plaza Mall. Merchants are encouraged to display messages on their marquees this week to honor veterans, said Veterans Week chairwoman Suzanne Henley.[37] Herman Breuer, Trumbull County Veterans Service commissioner, will deliver the keynote speech.[14] Numbers to call for transportation and other veteran services are: St. Lucie County, 337-5670; Martin County, 288-5450 for transportation or 288-5448 for benefit information; Indian River County, 567-8000, ext. 1499.[19]

Some of that bond money will be used by the Department of Veteran Services to hire the staff and rent the office space needed for the program. At that point, veterans can begin applying for the bonuses.[31] Luncheon, 10:45 a.m. to noon; third-grader patriotic music program, 12:15 to 12:40 p.m. Area veterans who wish to attend must call the school by today at (330) 726-3427. Veterans are urged to bring their stories to share with students and staff.[14]

To call and alert organizers of who is coming, call 557-3533, 209-4734, 209-0185 or 569-2520. In addition to these efforts by civic organizations, some local churches have special programs planned to honor veterans.[36]

The observance originally was known as Armistice Day. The program focuses on remembering and honoring those who died while serving in the military fighting to keep the people of the United States secure. Andrew Turek, while working on his Eagle Scout badge, built benches to honor local people who died while serving in the military, making more seating available for those attending the ceremony.[11]

The actual end of the war would come seven months later, on June 28, 1919, with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles, but it would be Armistice Day that everyone would remember. President Woodrow Wilson helped establish that when he proclaimed Nov. 11, 1919, as the nation's first commemoration of Armistice Day, saying, "To us in America, the reflection of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country's service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations."[17] After World War II and the Korean War, Congress in 1954 amended the act, replacing "Armistice" with "Veterans," and it has been officially celebrated on Nov. 11 ever since.[20] The parade will include area school marching bands, the Patriotic Timeline Association, color guards, restored World War II military vehicles and more.[37] Of course, World War II saw the expansion of our country's military to unprecedented levels.[41]

Flyover events are held throughout the day, a gift shop is open and rides aboard World War II aircraft are also available.[35] "Vietnam was called a 'conflict,' and wasn't declared a war like World War II," says the Summerfield resident. "It was looked at a lot differently when people came back. Lives were lost in Vietnam, just like in World War II, and a lot of Vietnam era vets came back messed up and never got back into the groove of life or carrying on with their lives because of the effects of having been in Vietnam."[21] A 3 p.m. ceremony will include the arrival of a restored World War II Corsair fighter plane, a preview of the History Channel series '''World War II in HD''' and a sky-diving demonstration.[29] Growing up at the end of World War II and reading about famous leaders of our armed forces, I had wanted to go to a military academy, but a railroad worker's son doesn't have the connections for an appointment to West Point.[47] On a personal note, thanks, Dad, for serving in World War II, for giving up a part of your youth, for marrying Mom and still being married, and now, for caring enough to recycle.[20]

Keeping with the traditions started in 1918, the band will perform "Over There!" by George M. Cohan which became the nation's rallying song during the Great War, as World War I was called at the time.[23] The ceremony begins at 11:11 a.m., the exact time of the end of World War I in 1918.[11]

The ceremony is scheduled for 10:15 a.m. at the park where a veterans monument has been under development with seven rectangular stones: One for veterans and six for the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and National Guard. [3] Veterans and civic leaders in Chapel Hill are planning a ceremony in the town's park on Horton Highway in downtown Chapel Hill.[3]

There will be a full turkey dinner immediately following the flag ceremony, to which all veterans and a guest are invited to attend.[10] The service will conclude with the raising of the flag. Veterans, their families and the public are encouraged to attend.[24]

Bush, former Youngstown City police chief and a Vietnam veteran, and Ed Savel, commander of the United Veterans Council, will participate in the placing of the wreath.[14] Staton said Vietnam Veterans from as far away as Kentucky and Indiana will attend the event.[42]

If the younger veterans don't join organizations like the VFW, we are doomed. There is no such thing as a young or younger Vietnam vet.[41]

The state of Florida itself is making a gesture on behalf of veterans, which will also benefit others who love the state park system.[36] Marching will be veterans' groups, patriotic commissions and marching bands and drill teams from throughout the state, organizers said.[15]

I haven't always wanted to talk about it. It hasn't always been cool to be a veteran, especially a peacetime veteran. Some of my high school friends looked down their noses, I think, at those of us who didn't have the money for college after high school.[47] Veterans groups throughout Cumberland County have scheduled events Sunday through Wednesday in salute to servicemen and women, past and present.[40]

In the event of rain, the ceremony will be held at VFW Post 6704, 4907 Carlisle Pike, starting at 11 a.m. Lunch will be served for all in attendance at the VFW post immediately following the service.[40] Naturalization ceremony on the Midway: Officials for Navy Region Southwest and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will hold a naturalization ceremony for dozens of service members from all military branches. 10 a.m. aboard the aircraft carrier Midway, 910 N. Harbor Drive.[29]

Before the parade, there will be a wreath-laying ceremony at noon at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch at Jewell and Trinity streets at Bushnell Park. The parade will start at Buckingham and Washington streets, traveling north along Trinity Street, passing under the arch, taking a right on Asylum Street and then making its way to Main Street. It ends on Capitol Avenue.[15] Headlined, '''Chronic Neglect of Vietnam Memorial Just One of Kansas City'''s Mixed Bag of Problems,''' the editorial stated that the Parks Board, the members of which are all appointed by the Mayor, has more or less fiddled while the Vietnam Memorial and Fountains has steadily deteriorated for more than a year.[13] The Shelby parade is the brainchild of mortgage banker Bill Staton, whose brother Larry Banks was wounded in action while serving in Vietnam with the Marines. The largely agricultural city of 10,000 has been battered by the economy; a major steel-tubing employer has laid off half of its 600 workers in the past year.[1] "The reviewing stand in front of City Hall is a great place to watch the parade," says city of Auburn special-events coordinator Kristy Pachciarz. "We have more than 30 bands this year, most of them stop and perform there, and the parade emcee is there.[34]

Mayor Bill Freytag didn't hesitate to host the parade for free, offering police services for crowd and traffic control. "It might be 40 years late, but I think it's a great idea," Freytag said.[1] The rate has declined because there are fewer left alive now. It reached its peak last year when they were dying at the rate of 1,200 per day. Think about it even the ones who falsified their birthdays to go into the service early are now at least nearly 80. They are the ones we've come to know as the Greatest Generation; the young men, and women, who signed up in droves to defend their country from attack, and thereby saved the world. They weren't the first, though.[17] As has been the tradition for over 80 years, the service will start at 11 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month.[48]

Later we went to war in Iraq. Throughout the last few years, reminders of importance of those who fight for us, the weight of sacrifice for those who die for us, are with us every day. They fill our headlines, our conversations, our thoughts, our prayers.[18] The Vietnam War, lasting 11 years, recruited 8.7 million soldiers, and we've lost about 1.5 million.[20] The setting is a comfort for Willis Cochran, who served in the Navy during the Vietnam War. His jaw tightens and face darkens as he remembers what happened when he returned to his hometown of Bainbridge, Ga., 43 years ago.[1] The ranks of more than 3 million who served in the Vietnam War are thinning as well.[25]

"There is a sense of impending loss," said J. Michael Wenger, a Raleigh, N.C. -based military historian and Vietnam War author.[1] Military families face a different kind of mission while a loved one is away; one that is just as important. They may not be dodging bullets or pulling duty in 120-degree heat, but spouses and parents who manage the finances, family schedules, work, raising children and dealing with the worry about their loved one is a daunting mission to say the least. Their soldier could not be strong on the war front if they were not strong at home.[26] Lacking money, and unable to find a job when I graduated between the Korean and the Vietnam wars, I became a soldier, an ordinary private at the age of 18.[47] We never are the same person when we come back from a war zone. No matter how people say it doesn't affect them, it does affect them. It may not affect you today or tomorrow but at some point it is going to affect you," he said. "I guess I have a lot of concerns for the soldiers as they are coming back because I know they have a lot of problems, dealing with what they saw and what they had to do," Capt.[43] After Sept. 11, it was reasonable to try to stop al-Qaida from using Afghanistan as a safe haven for more attacks on the U.S., though I think it is sad that we've never really come to grips with how the presence of American troops in the region, as a result of the first Gulf War, was a provocation to people there.[47] The first Gulf War also seemed questionable. Saddam Hussein was given the green light from our State Department, then labeled as a Hitler when he used force to try to settle a border dispute with Kuwait. Most people felt he shouldn't be allowed to take over that country.[47]

For that reason, Nov. 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of "the war to end all wars." [19] Nelson, 63, considers himself doubly lucky in that he survived Vietnam and was able to return home to resume a normal life. Society's beliefs about Vietnam have changed in the decades since the war ended, and recognition - no matter how late - is appreciated, he says.[21] Mayor Funkhouser did attend a Memorial Day observance at the Vietnam Memorial last spring.[13] Hopkins County residents may join in a variety of activities during the upcoming days to honor men and women who have served in the armed forces.[37] A judge sentenced "Girls Gone Wild" founder Joe Francis on Friday to 301 days already served and a year of probation for filing false income.[29]

One, Army Chaplain and Captain Tino Villalovas is now experiencing the after-effects. He spent 9 months in Afghanistan and 7 months in Iraq. "I go to a day program here at the VA and so I am kind of recovering from the trauma myself," he said.[43] And, as we presently are engaged in the war on terror, we have lost 4,665 soldiers in Afghanistan, Iraq and the Philippines.[20]

Protesters were alarmed by the rising number of U.S. casualties, concerned that civilians were among the victims and worried that the nation was mired in an unwinnable war that had little purpose.[1]

The Post reopened four years ago, said Covell, and it now has about 100 members. [10] Don't do anything or post anything considered illegal by city, county, state or federal regulations and laws.[25]

A member of the auxiliary will be posted at the gazebo in Confederate Park before, during and immediately after the parade to accept donations of items for the soldiers. They need unscented personal hygiene items, hard candy, chewing gum, playing cards, pens, notepads and other comfort items. [36]

SOURCES

1. The Associated Press: Ohio town to toast forgotten Vietnam veterans
2. The Associated Press: Ohio town to toast forgotten Vietnam veterans
3. Marshall County Tribune: Story: Traditional Veterans Day ceremonies anticipated
4. News : Parade to take spotlight Wednesday morning : Nogales International : Nogales, AZ
5. Franklin County area Veterans Day programs - Chambersburg Public Opinion
6. Annual Veterans Day observance is Nov. 11 | lansingstatejournal.com | Lansing State Journal
7. Greater Binghamton Veterans Honored | WBNG-TV: News Sports, Weather Binghamton, New York | Local Top Stories
8. Veterans calendar: November 7 - Norwich, CT - Norwich Bulletin
9. Area Veterans Day memorials planned - Coulee News
10. American Legion hosting Veterans Day event at River Club - Marshfield, MA - Scituate Mariner
11. NorthJersey.com: Veterans Day observance is at the park on Wed. LOCAL EVENTS
12. Veterans Day events planned in St. Charles County | Chas Beat | STLtoday
13. KCTribune: Mayor Funkhouser Did Attend Event Honoring Fallen at Vietnam Memorial
14. VETERANS DAY ACTIVITIES - Local & Regional News - Vindy.com, The Vindicator
15. Veterans Day Parade Set For Sunday In Hartford -- Courant.com
16. War trauma lingers for many -- Page 1 -- Times Union - Albany NY:2825:
17. Let's take time to thank a veteran - The News Observer - Opinions
18. Yankton Press & Dakotan > Opinion > Letters > Remembering Veterans
19. Paul Hiott: Why Veterans Day is important to all of us » TCPalm.com
20. Life: Thanks go to all who have served | veteran, army, wrote : gaston onSet Site - WAP
21. Northwest Observer > News
22. Editorial: Veterans Day - As Seen On News Story - KSBW The Central Coast
23. Terre Haute News, Terre Haute, Indiana- TribStar.com - Jackson Township Band to perform Veterans Day concert
24. Mt. Sterling Advocate.
25. On Veterans Day, remember those who truly deserve our gratitude - National voices - MercedSun-Star.com
26. Pike County Courier - MY TURN By Frank Mills, PA VFW state commander - Straus Newspapers
27. Our View: Veterans, we appreciate you - Hannibal, MO - Hannibal Courier-Post
28. Back home, veterans fight different kind of war -- chicagotribune.com
29. Veterans Week to honor service members past and present
30. Cassville Democrat: Story: Their sacrifice protects our freedom
31. Bonus won't be paid for at least a year | marionstar.com | The Marion Star
32. News : Veterans honored with parade in Slidell Sunday : St. Tammany, LA
33. Saluting TV soldiers for Veteran's Day
34. Outdoors | Thousands expected at Auburn's veterans parade | Seattle Times Newspaper
35. Veterans Day events
36. Movie convertible to feature in vets parade | Jackson County Floridan
37. Welcome To Hopkins County, KY Local News, The Pennyrile Plus
38. Veteran's Day observances to be held in local communities | Flint News - - MLive.com
39. SAN MARCOS: Ceremony in park to recognize military veterans Saturday
40. The Sentinel Online : News Local : SCHEDULE: Veterans Day ceremonies
41. Guest commentary: Calling on veterans to serve once again » Naples Daily News
42. WMFD.com - Thousands Expected To Attend Vietnam Veterans Parade
43. Army Chaplain Recalls Harshness of War - 11Alive.com | WXIA | Atlanta, GA
44. News : Veterans Day activities slated for Wednesday : Nogales International : Nogales, AZ
45. Honoring veterans in St. Lucie County » TCPalm.com
46. On Veterans Day: How to stop veteran suicides | The Progressive
47. As a veteran, I support the troops, cause of peace | chillicothegazette.com | Chillicothe Gazette
48. Veterans Day ceremony Nov. 11 - Nashoba Publishing Online

GENERATE A MULTI-SOURCE SUMMARY ON ANY SUBJECT
Enter your search query below. WAIT 10-20 sec for the new window to open.
Get more info on Op-Ed Contributor The Forever War of the Mind by using the iResearch Reporter tool from Power Text Solutions.

Above is the automatically generated multi-source news digest.
Its main content has been compiled basing on the fair use of snippets from original news stories (initially clustered by the Google News) by applying our multi-document summarization technology. The title has been excerpted from this article, and the top image was found

Guilford County Northwest Observer

Op-Ed Contributor The Forever War of the Mind

New York Times - here.

Give Us Your Feedback!

How did you like this article?