Veterans Day 2024

Salina honored their Veterans Monday morning with a ceremony at Sunset Park. The event was well attended, with Southeast of Saline 7th and 8th graders, Cornerstone Classical School, Salina residents, and many veterans and their families.

The Marine Core League, The American Legion riders, the VFW riders, the Combat Veteran riders, the VFW Auxillary, and the VFW honor guard firing squad participated in the proceedings.

Commander Richard Kinney oversaw the proceedings. Michelle Dolan, the executive director of music at Kansas Wesleyan, sang the National Anthem, followed by Chaplain Mike Wise's invocation.

Chris from Cornerstone Classical School thanked the veterans and noted that "We should give the surest and oldest truths to our youngest children if we would have them grow to honor those who have served and the principles of our wonderful republic." and introduced the grade one kids from Cornerstone Classical School to recite a portion of the Declaration of Independence.

Guest speaker Master Sgt. David Medina Jr. said "It is a privilege and honor to be here as a soldier, as an American, and as a Veteran. Thank you to all the organizations, military, and civilians who have gathered here today to honor all those who gave their lives, and all those who have risked their lives, so that our nation might remain free. We honor all those that at this moment are standing watch for freedom and security. Thank you for your sacrifices, your valor, for the things you carry, for protecting us, and for defending our rights."

Sgt. Medina also noted that "this day gives us all precious opportunity to reflect on what it means to be a patriot. To reflect on what it means to be a nation tested by war. To reflect both on the cost and the blessings of liberty. There could be no doubt that America's fighting men and women have given much to ensure that our great nation stays free. We owe a debt of gratitude to all those who have served, to all those who have been injured, and especially to all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice."

Gun volleys, taps, and the benediction by Chaplain Wise concluded the service.

Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. The day was established to honor military veterans who served in the United States Armed Forces. In 1954, after World War II and the Korean War, the holiday was renamed Veterans Day to recognize all American veterans. It is observed annually on November 11 and serves as a time to reflect on the sacrifices and contributions of those who have served in the military.

This story and photo gallery has been provided for free, compliments of SalinaHomeServices.com