Veterans Day Ceremony Honors Service Amid Snow
Veterans Day is a revered occasion to honor those who have served in the U.S. Community members, including many veterans, gathered on November 11 during snow showers at the snow-covered Chardon Square gazebo for the annual Veterans Day ceremony. The event was hosted by Chardon Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6519 and Chardon American Legion Post 167.
Community Tribute and Support
“Veterans Day is a day to thank those who served this beautiful country,” said Michele Pemberton, Geauga County Veterans Services director, who welcomed fellow veterans with hot coffee and donuts before the ceremony.
“The community comes out to support, regardless of the weather. I remember giving the Veterans Day speech early on in my career. It was snowing and I couldn’t feel my hands to turn the pages or my lips as I spoke. Yet, there was a crowd of veterans and civilians standing shoulder to shoulder. As soldiers, we are trained to adapt to weather and our surroundings, so we ‘suck it up and accomplish the mission.’”
Honoring Service Through Leadership
Steve Oluic, Master of Ceremonies and Chardon VFW quartermaster, shared his background, saying he first became interested in Army ROTC during his last two years at Case Western Reserve University. After graduation, he was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Army.
Now in his 19th year of service, the Army assigned him as an assistant professor of geography at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He later served as assistant dean of strategy and policy.
Summary
The Veterans Day ceremony demonstrated strong community support and highlighted the dedication of military leaders adapting to challenges to honor the service of all veterans.