Veterans and their families gathered at a Veterans Day luncheon at the VFW Rhine Post, 5858 S. Archer, to hear prayers, and their own members reflect on what service meant to them and their families.
Robert Kozak, who is the new post commander, opened the luncheon.
“We honor our own veterans, our dead heroes, worthy men and women, who gave their best when they were called to serve and protect their country,” said Kozak.
An opening prayer followed, along with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for veterans. A later prayer asked for blessings on all veterans, those missing in action and prisoners of war, their families, and their return home.
Ald. Silvana Tabares (23rd) thanked veterans for their service and sacrifice. She also thanked the VFW Post for its community engagement and work with children.
Sue Staneart, a member of the auxiliary and daughter of a World War II veteran, said the day is meant for every veteran, living or dead.
“Veterans Day is to honor all veterans. Anyone who answered the call; it’s not just for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. It’s for all the veteran who left their family, left their city, whether they are on foreign soil or protecting our American soil,” Staneart said.
“The day brings a different significance to the veterans than to all of us, and I’m hoping that our veterans can remember proudly their service today,” she said.
Staneart walked the audience through the holiday’s history. She said it was originally called Armistice Day and that President Eisenhower proclaimed Nov. 11 as Veterans Day in 1954, expanding the observance beyond World War I veterans to include World War II veterans.
Taps was played, and military personnel saluted. The crowd then sang God Bless America. The audience heard that Taps traces back to the Civil War, when bugle calls replaced drum signals that were hard to hear over the noise of battle, and the call meaning time for bed became known as Taps.
Irvin A. Byrce Jr., a trustee of VFW Rhine Post 2729, served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. He said veterans owe their families.
“We feel that we owe a lot of people thanks, especially our families, because they’re the ones that supported us,” Byrce said.
“No matter what service we’re in, we all love America,” he said. “Every veteran would fight again, if necessary, to preserve our way of life.”
Ray Miller served in the Army in 1956. He said many young men from working-class families went into the service after high school. All of his brothers served.
Miller said, “It was an opportunity to learn discipline and serve the country.”
Angel Mosqueda, a past commander of American Legion Post 735 in Summit and a VFW member, served with the Marines alongside his brother in Vietnam from 1967 through 1970. He later worked as a police officer and is retired.
“I’m here to honor all of our veterans who serve our country and gave their all,” Mosqueda said.
