The Portage Exchange Club celebrated a late Veterans Day at its Wednesday, November 16, breakfast meeting at the Portage Best Western.
Veterans from World War II up to the Gulf War were in attendance, some of them club members.
The veterans were welcomed and thanked by club president, Joan Hasse-Rodriguez.
Two fifth graders from Aylesworth Elementary School, Bonnie Clancy and Michael Bingham, read letters they had written thanking all veterans for their dedication and service. Their letters were chosen from over 70 letters submitted as exceptionally well written and heartfelt. Bonnie was accompanied by her parents, Michelle and Brendan Clancy. Michael was accompanied by his father, Allen Bingham.
Major John Johnston, instructor of the Portage High School Marine Corps Junior ROTC, was guest speaker. Shaking hands with Ed Gottschling and Joe Such, Johnston said, “I am honored to be here with all these vets, but especially these World War II veterans."
“One of the good outcomes of the wars we have fought is that we have a lot of veterans. They exemplify love of country. In serving, the seeds were planted for a true appreciation of what we have. When they returned to our shores, they knew exactly how blessed we are to be Americans."
“Veterans want to keep what we have. Less than one half of one percent of our population are the men and women who fight to keep us safe.”
Johnston then showed a video created by Cherie Gill, MCJROTC Booster Club Secretary, and set to the Trace Adkins’s song “I Made It to Arlington.” It featured photos of the 26 Northwest Indiana young servicepeople who have lost their lives since 2002.
Photos:
- Aylesworth fifth grader Michael Bingham stands with Portage Exchange Club president Joan Hass-Rodriguez after reading his letter of thanks to the veterans.
- Aylesworth fifth grader Bonnie Clancy stands with Portage Exchange Club president Joan Hass-Rodriguez after reading her letter of thanks to the veterans.
- Major John Johnston discusses the importance of veterans in our society and the idea that "freedom is not free."
- (L to R) Honored guests at the Portage Exchange Club Veterans Day celebration are: Sal Rodriguez (Air Force), Roger Mergl (Army), John Johnstson (Marines), Ed Gottschling (Coastguard and Navy), Walt White (Air Force and Army), Chuck Coppes (Navy), Joe Such (Navy), Warren Lewis (Air Force), Ted Uzelac (Army) and Jay Cribari (Army). Not pictured: Brad Clapp (Air Force)