Brian Hagberg
WARREN, Pa. – At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 2021, veterans and citizens gathered at Soldiers and Sailors Park on Thursday to honor those who served in the United States Armed Forces.
Overlooking the Allegheny River, the American Legion Post 135 put on a Veterans Day ceremony that included a raising of the colors, the reading of the Gettysburg Address, placing of the wreaths and a brief keynote address from Pa. State Representative Kathy Rapp.
Following the raising of the colors, members of the Youngsville High School marching band played the Star-Spangled Banner. Post 135 Service Officer Eric Jones followed with a recitation of the Gettysburg Address.
Rapp, who has served as the event’s keynote speaker several times including in 2020, opened her remarks with a simple note of thanks.
“This is a day that we honor all of those who served our country,” Rapp said. “So ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining me on this Veterans Day, as we honor the men and women throughout our nation’s history who chose to serve their country in military uniform.
“I believe it is not only fitting but more importantly, our civic responsibility. To never forget nor take for granted the valiant sacrifices each of you have made on our behalf every day.”
Post 135 members laid a wreath and the Sheffield VFW Post 8755 Color Guard fired a 21-gun salute before a pair of trumpeters plaid taps in turn.
Dudley Winewriter, Commander Post 135, closed the ceremony with a simple request.
“Take a moment to thank (veterans) for protecting what you hold dear,” Winewriter said. “Make it very clear. Just tap them on the shoulder, give a smile and say thanks for what you’re doing to keep us safe in the United States.”
