Annual Veterans Day breakfast held

As they have for many years, on Nov. 11 the Upper Leacock Township War Memorial Association (ULTWMA) held a Veterans Day breakfast in the Veteran's Hall of the War Memorial Building, 54 W. Main St., Leola. This year, nearly 40 veterans, spouses, and guests took part in the observance.

The event was opened by ULTWMA vice president Tim Chopp, who introduced pastor Bruce Tully of Salem Evangelical Reformed Church, Hellers. Tully offered the opening prayer, saying, "God, we are humbled by your presence with us. We thank you for your grace and welcoming spirit as we gather to honor our veterans." Tully went on, "We are also humbled by those with us and those not here who have set aside personal lives to honor this great country. In every branch of military service, there are men and women who gave all they had that the rest of us might be kept safe."

The prayer was followed by the playing of the national anthem. Each of the themes of the various military branches was also played, and veterans were encouraged to rise when they heard the song of the branch in which they had served. The attendees applauded for veterans as they stood to represent their branches. After recognizing the veterans, breakfast was served. Breakfast consisted of sausages, bacon, pancakes, coffee cake, fruit, and coffee.

Following breakfast, Chopp introduced Rep. Keith Greiner of the 43rd District. Greiner opened by thanking ULTWMA president Bob Zook and his wife, Barb, and a team of volunteers for organizing the breakfast and then thanking those veterans who were present for the event. Greiner shared a history lesson on the founding of Veterans Day, which began as Armistice Day on Nov. 11, 1919, one year after the end of World War I. "In 1926, (Armistice Day) became a national day of observance, and in 1938, Nov. 11 became a national holiday," Greiner told the group. He noted that in 1954, when president Dwight Eisenhower signed legislation, the name was changed to Veterans Day to honor those who served in all American wars.

"I thank you all for your bravery and sacrifice to ensure that peace and democracy prevailed," said Greiner, who also went on to detail how "American forces have always been ready to respond to conflicts and injustices and to spread freedom and democracy." He also pointed out that "World War I led to America's rise as a super power," adding that American troops preserved the sovereignty of South Korea and worked to try to stop the spread of communism in Vietnam, in the end helping refugees from that country to new found freedom in America. "For years we fought for stability and democracy in the Middle East and squashed terrorist organizations that threatened the United States," stated Greiner. "In peacetime or in war America has always stood ready against threats to the homeland and to support its allies."

At the end of his speech, Greiner spoke specifically to the veterans in the room. "It is through your significant contribution and the sacrifice of soldiers who have died and the work of those who stand watch today that we all know what it means to be free," he said. "We remember the sacrifices of those who paid for freedom with their lives, and extend heartfelt gratitude to you for your service."

Following Greiner's speech, Chopp made a surprise announcement, saying, "We want to honor one of our veterans who is also part of the community." Chopp then stated that Dean Gross would be recognized for his military service and his dedication to the ULTWMA. "Dean Gross served in the Army National Guard, and he has served the community in a lot of ways," said Chopp, listing the Lancaster Sertoma Club, Bareville Fire Company, and the Lions Club among Gross' volunteer efforts. Chopp added that Gross is also an ULTWMA trustee. "God bless you, Dean, and thank you for your service," said Chopp, who presented Gross with a plaque. Barb gave Gross a crocheted red, white, and blue blanket.

Gross expressed surprise at the honor. "I really appreciate this. Thank you very much," he said.

After special veterans' yard flags were given away as door prizes to the attending veterans, Tully closed the gathering, saying, "May the Lord keep you. May His hand be upon your works and deeds, and may He always be your guiding light."

The breakfast concluded with the playing of taps.