Veteran's recognized on their day of honor

Local veterans were recognized and honored by local merchants and the VFW Post and Auxiliary on Veteran's Day 2016. Hot coffee greeted customers at the Westside Convenience Store, G.N., Stretch's and Hitchin' Post throughout the day, and was compliments of the business. Shear Essence salon offered free haircuts to Veterans and Jerry's Barber Shop offered a special that day for those who have served as well.

The Sons of the Legion posted flags at the cemetery early in the morning to honor those who have passed. American Legion and VFW members Jay Southwick, Bill Smith, Donald Klinko, Kent Gordon, Jerilyn Murdock and Jim Layton gave a presentation at the Malta Middle and High School s in the afternoon. Part of the program included the singing of the Pledge of Allegiance under the direction of Larry Swingen and introduction of those assisting with the program. This was followed by introduction of school staff members, Kelly McCann and Robert Twiggs who have also served their country.

American Legion member Pr. Kent Gordon spoke about the opportunities available provided by our freedom - including the right to donate blood to save other lives. An impressive number of students stood and were recognized for their support for others by having donated blood at the drive held at the high school the day before.

Post Commander Jim Layton recognized the importance and influence of teachers to promote patriotism through leadership and example. Layton presented Shyla Clausen, middle school teacher with her certificates for having been selected as the VFW District and State VFW Middle School Teacher of the Year recently.

On the stage beside the podium was an empty chair draped with the banner of the POW MIA. Legion members took the opportunity to remember the incredible cost paid by those who gave their all to help preserve the freedoms we enjoy, those gallant individuals who fought and died for our country. Yet, it is in remembering our fallen comrades that we are reminded of those whose fate is still unknown, those still listed as Missing In Action and Prisoners Of War.

More than 78,000 Americans are still unaccounted for from World War II; 8,100 from Korea; 120 from the Cold War; 1,810 from Viet Nam; and 3 from the Gulf War. These courageous Americans, who dedicated their lives to preserving and protecting our freedom, will never be forgotten.

The American Flag reminds us that many may never return and have paid the supreme sacrifice to insure our freedom. The Flag of the American Legion, reminds us of our organization that has pledged full accountability for all who have not returned.

The Chair is empty, our Comrades are missing.

A video was shown as part of the program at the high school and students were urged to consider a career in the military. The video also thanked those who have served and those who have given their lives for others.

The military group also assembled at the grade school and presented the colors of the flags as well. Elementary teacher, Cindy Christman was also presented her certificates for having been selected as the VFW District and State VFW Elementary Teacher of the Year. The band played songs under the direction of Eric Engebretson and entertained the filled gym and military songs were also sang.

The evening ended with a fine feast prepared for the Veterans, their spouses and guests as well as the public. The colors were presented and the group shared the Pledge to the Flag. Dale Bruckner sang the national anthem. Local businesses had donated a nice array of door prizes which were drawn for and dispersed and a 50-50 drawing was held. The local VFW Auxiliary selection for the local winner of the Voice of Democracy essay contest was read to the audience. Author of the essay was Andrea Rutledge. Table artwork was provided by the Malta Elementary students.

The American Legion assisted with preparation and setup for the dinner and were an asset to the success of the event, as were the VFW members, VFW Auxiliary members and all the volunteers from within the community who pitched together to pay tribute to those who are responsible for the freedom we have. About 100 were in attendance at the evening event and there was an excellent attendance by the Veterans. A special thank you for the community support to make the day one to remember.