Malta VFW holds Tribute for Fallen soldiers

They came to honor and show respect and patriotism and pride filled the room. A day of remembrance, Memorial Day is more than an extra day off from work or picnics or sitting on the shore waiting for a bite on the fishing hook. A crowd filled the VFW on Memorial Day to pay their respects to special members of our community, Gold Star Mother Mellissa Sandvick and WWII Veteran Fred Allery.

American Legion President Michelle Stevens welcomed Mellissa as the county's lone Gold Star Mother. She read the details of Mellissa's son Lance Cpl. Jeremy Sandvick-Monroe, who was in the Marines and gave his life like so many, in a far and distant land far from home in Iraq. Stevens presented her with a long stem rose. Jeremy was 20 at the time of his death on October 8, 2006. VFW President Kari Hould read a poem honoring Jeremy.

VFW Commander James Layton read the name of deceased Veterans since 2019 and following the reading of each name recently elected VFW Commander Arron Riggs tapped a bell, the echo of which resounded over the stillness of the crowd gathered.

Special guest, Fred Allery was proud of his service in WWII, having served when he entered the service during his sophomore year in high school. Fred was honored in 2005 by his hometown, Whitewater where he was recognized and honored for his duty and commitment. Allery was presented a long stem red rose also from Carolyn Schmoeckel. He smiled and beamed with pride as he reveived a standing ovation from the packed crowd.

The crowd enjoyed a BBQ dinner followed by a cake which was compliments of The First State Bank of Malta. Names were drawn for door prizes and the American Legion completed their raffle drawings.

On Tuesday morning Hould visited the other WWII veteran Andrew Nagy in the local hospital and presented him with a long stem rose in honor and recognition of his service. Tuesday, May 31, was Nagy's 96th birthday. While the actual time to observe those who have served in our miltary is Veterans Day, the group chose to honor Allery and Nagy on Memorial Day due to their age and health. Andrew Nagy gained his wings and joined his wife in heaven on Sunday, June 5th. Condolences to the Nagy family, as well as prayers.