Veteran’s Day Ceremony Held at American Legion

Veterans, their family and friends gathered at the Oskaloosa Legion on Monday to remember Veterans Day. (photo by Shelly Spaur)

by Shelly Spaur

Oskaloosa, Iowa – As many people went about their normal Monday morning, a small group gathered this morning at the American Legion for a ceremony celebrating Veteran’s Day.

The service began with the Posting of the Colors by the American Legion Color Guard and the National Anthem. Fred Bridges was the master of ceremony and introduced members of the local American Legion, VFW, and the Women’s Auxiliaries. The invocation was completed by Jerry Blanchard. A moment of silence was then held for one minute honoring those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation and those deceased military personnel who have gone before us. Mr. Bridges gave the audience a short history lesson on Armistice Day and how Veteran’s Day became a National Holiday. He then introduced the keynote speaker, Pastor Alvern Boetsma.

Pastor Boetsma’s speech focused on the multiple ways that veteran’s pay for our freedoms. Many have given their lives for our country while many others have scars, both seen and unseen, that they must live with. Focus then moved to the many women who have served and continue to serve in our military. From supporting soldiers to our first female 4 star general, women continue to play an important part in the military. Pastor Boetsma’s speech concluded with two poems about soldiers and a soldier’s prayer.

The ceremony concluded with comments from other members of the American Legion and VFW, a firing of the 21 gun salute, taps, and a drawing for quilts made by the local quilting guild. A meal was served by the Women’s Auxiliary for any who wished to stay and join in the festivities.