11/12/12 Service has ended, but duty remains

                        
SUMMARY: Veterans, civilians encouraged to serve country as volunteers Although their time in uniform may be over, veterans still have a role to play. In a Veteran’s Day ceremony held Nov. 12 in the Holmes County Courthouse, Sargent First Class Woodrow Wilson, U.S. Army, retired, encouraged veterans to be active in service organizations and to reach out to others who have served. Wilson extended the call for service to all Americans. “Just because you’re no longer in uniform, your tour of duty has not expired,” Wilson said. “America still needs your service. That goes for not just veterans, but for all Americans...Now is the time for you to make a difference.” Wilson said that he, like many, was once confused about the difference between Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day. Memorial Day is for fallen soldiers, and Veteran’s Day is for the 30 million living U.S. veterans “who served, than went on to” lead normal lives, Wilson said. “We’re the ones that served, got home, got married,” Wilson said. Amidst civilian life, Wilson said veterans still have a duty to their country, and to one another. Wilson encouraged all to thank veterans for their service, and help out when needed. He suggested small things that are never the less greatly appreciated, such as carrying groceries or buying lunch. “I’m going to ask you to do the one thing they tell you never to do in the service-volunteer,” Wilson said. “Even if you’ve never served (in the armed forces) become veterans of service to your country.” Vietnam veteran Gary Wagers served as master of ceremonies, giving thanks for “a day for us to salute America’s finest”. In his invocation, United Methodist Church Pastor Tom Jones said veterans represent “worthy men and women who gave their best when their country called.” “We respect them, we honor them, and we are proud of them,” Jones said. The West Holmes marching band performed patriotic songs and closed the ceremony with “Taps”. The American Legion Post 192 served as color guard. The ceremony was followed by a free lunch for veterans at the Darb Snyder Senior Center. KUTLINE: U.S. Army Sgt. Woodrow Wilson speaks during the Holmes County Veteran's Service Center 2012 Veteran's Day Ceremony, held in the Holmes County Courthouse. The ceremony was held indoors in the common pleas courtroom due to rain, with the West Holmes marching band performing "Taps" in the hallway.


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