Deceased Vets honored at Buster Deo Post 4067

As winter fell gently on the county to close out the year, the local VFW Christmas tree had a new set of ornaments in memory of the fifteen deceased Veterans from 2019.

The tree is at the local VFW Buster Deo Post 4067 in Malta. As a project for the community the American Legion Auxiliary Juniors created ornaments this year similar to the dog tags worn by military and a picture of the deceased Veteran, his name and 2019 were included on them. This is a project the Juniors have participated in for the last several years. The group includes Lauren Tuss, Samme Gibbs, Sidney Gibbs, and Denvyr Tuss. The ornaments were also duplicated and provided to the families of the deceased upon request.

Of the 15 deceased Veterans. two had served in World War II, three were Veterans from the Korean War, one was in the French Military and the rest were Vietnam Conflict Veterans. The local American Legion, Sons of the American Legion and VFW members combine efforts and volunteer to provide Color Guard Honors at the local funerals at the request of the family. Arrangements are coordinated through the Service Officer for the County, Jay Southwick and the local funeral home. In addition to the Color Guard honors, the families receive a US flag in memory of their loved one. The five branches of the military, including the Army (and National Guard), Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard are honored as Taps was played following a flag folding and presentation ceremony as part of funeral services. If someone outside of the county would like the services for a burial within the county, arrangements are made by contacting the local funeral home and requesting such. The Color Guard ceremony must be requested — they serve when asked.

While too often one has a tendency to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season, those who lost a loved one this year face the holidays often in a less than joyful feeling. There is always someone who will be remembering the Veterans who have fought and served, and this project keeps their memory alive. Though their names aren’t on any famous “walls,” they are forever in our hearts and memories. They served and they are not forgotten. When you get the opportunity thank a Veteran and thank the locals who provide such a meaningful and caring act at the final tribute to a loved one.

The 2019 names remembered started with Marine Marty LoneBear, Jr and the last funeral was of Leroy Dyrdahl. Between these two Veterans, alphabetically families and friends lost: Robert Bushman, Malcolm Clouse, Allan Crowder, James “Doc” Curtis, Robert Darrah, Allan Dorvak, James Farstad, Bryan Hurt, Fred Itcaina, Jeff Miller, Terry Stiles Roy Waters and Peter K. Wiese. Our community lost wisdom, knowledge, youth, potential and a lot of history. Thank you, again, Veterans, for your service. You may rest.