Veteran's Day took on an even more sober tone Tuesday when Command Sergeant Major John S. Werner, addressing the city's celebration of the holiday honoring veterans and service members, broke away from his prepared remarks to note that members of the armed forces in Duluth were preparing at that very moment to go on duty in Iraq or Afghanistan. "It's important to recognize that these soldiers have answered this nation's call," Werner said.
Earlier in his presentation, Werner had pointed out ways to honor veterans every day, "not just on formal days such as this." He particularly cited vets who had served in undeclared wars and didn't always get the kind of hero's welcome their sacrifice may have warranted.
As a 21-gun salute was fired and "Taps" was played, some silently wept.
An honor guard, Mayor Gary Doty, Father Tom Foster, ANG, and two musical groups from Duluth East High School participated in the event. Doty said it was his 12th year hosting the event and mentioned the friendship he had developed with Congressional Medal of Honor winner Mike Colalillo. Doty noted that the events of the past few years had heightened everyone's awareness of military veterans.
"More than ever, I honor you and thank you for what you have done," Doty told the assembly. For more photos, see http://www.duluth.com .
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