Remembering our veterans

The flags were solemnly paraded to their rightful positions. School officials, veterans, guests and students stood in respect as the service Friday, Nov. 10, honoring military veterans commenced at Sidney Middle School.

“The more we understand what veterans have done, the more we recognize their impact on our lives,” said Sidney Regional Medical Center CEO Jason Petik.

He added that whether we recognize it or not, we are all connected to a veteran. He encouraged the community to honor veterans not just on Veterans Day, but any time there is an opportunity to honor them.

Sidney Vice Mayor Roger Gallaway acknowledged we are living in challenging times, adding that people, groups and nations threaten our way of life.

“We pause today to honor those who step in harm’s way,” he said.

Sidney High School principal Chris Arent stressed service.

“That is what our veterans have done,” he said.

He encouraged young people to talk to veterans in their families, learn their stories of service.

“Spend the time to listen,” he said.

Guest Speaker U.S. Air Force Col. Lloyd Buzzell, talked of the history of Veterans Day, traced back to Armistice Day. Armistice Day signified the end of World War I on Nov. 11, 1918. The date was first recognized Nov. 11, 1919.

It became a legal holiday in 1938, Col. Buzzell said.

He calls it a day of reflection. He said the true strength in the U.S. military is in the men and women who serve, not in the weapons and armament. He added that in every generation since the Revolutionary War men and women have stepped forward in support of their country.

“We know we can never repay the debt, but we can try,” he said.

He said he believes that together we can resolve the problems before us.

He encouraged everyone to remember veterans, their quiet courage and exemplary service.

“Our nation owes a debt to our veterans that can never be put in words,” Col. Buzzell said.

Following the presentation, a receiving line was formed outside of the gymnasium to give people the opportunity to meet and thank veterans.