Veterans and their families gathered for a day of celebration at the American Legion Harold Kerr Post 173 Saturday afternoon.
Servicemen and women were honored during the ninth annual Logan County Veteran Appreciation Day festivities which included the posting of colors, the Pledge of Allegiance, the National Anthem, the playing of Taps, a lunch, a pinning ceremony and more.
“It means a lot to all of us,” said Army veteran Harvey Goings Jr. “It shows the respect people have for all of the veterans and what we did.”
Bob Mays, Air Force veteran, said he thinks that the American Legion had “a nice set up” Saturday.
Hank Kies, Navy veteran, agreed.
“It’s nice that they do show appreciation for servicemen,” he said.
Tom Burnside, Army veteran, said the American Legion always has a “good spread.”
“For military families, this is where it’s at,” he said. “If you’re not at home, your military family will get you through what you’ve got to do.”
Jocellen Detwiler, homeschooled sophomore student, gave a presentation about a project she had been working on with Art Kemp, an Air Force veteran.
“I appreciate all that the veterans have done for our freedom and all the sacrifices they have made for our freedom,” she said.
Jocellen had been working with Kemp for two years.
“The relationship that crosses generations is just truly amazing,” said Christine Detwiler, Jocellen’s mother. “They just share a bond — a friendship.”
During the Vietnam Veteran’s pinning ceremony, Susan Cronkleton of the American Legion, said she was amazed by the number of honorees.
“It’s so great to have this turnout for Vietnam veterans,” she said.
“I know this group was not appreciated when they served and were not welcomed home. That breaks my heart. We are so glad (they) were here. (They) deserve so much after all this.”
Army veteran Bill Guthrie gave a very special thank you to a group not often acknowledged — the military wives.
“They make us proud,” he said. “Every time you look at a veteran, look back and see who’s behind them … The wives don’t get enough recognition. They deserve it.”
Jerry Hobart, army veteran, said overall, he thought the event was great.
“I’m just glad to be here,” he said.