Annual Veterans Day breakfast held

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, with more than 30 veterans, spouses, and guests taking 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, "We are grateful for (our veterans) for their dedication, discipline, faithfulness, and courage. From them may we learn the virtues of selfless service ... unswerving faithfulness to country ... perseverance in difficult and challenging situations." Tully continued, "We lift up to your care those families who have lost a member of the armed forces in the line of duty. May your constant presence and help be theirs."

The prayer was followed by the playing of the national anthem. Each of the hymns of the various military branches was played. Veterans were encouraged to rise when they heard the hymn of the branch in which they had served. Breakfast consisted of sausages, pancakes, coffee cake, juice, and coffee.

Following breakfast, Chopp introduced Lancaster County Commissioner Joshua Parsons. Parsons, who served in the U.S. Army at Fort Benning (now Fort Moore), described being trained to pack his parachute before his first jump, with particular attention to packing the rucksack, which hits the ground first. "You have to rig it carefully," said Parsons. "If you have lots of gear hanging, it can get caught on the door (when you jump)." Unfortunately, Parsons did not give the class his undivided attention, and when it was time to pack the gear, he was unsure of the technique. Parsons thought the issue would be fixed for him, but when he approached the plane, a sergeant told him "You rigged it. You ride it." After experiencing high anxiety, Parsons jumped successfully, but he remembered the sergeant's words. "'You rigged it. You ride it' stuck with me the rest of my military and (civilian career)," said Parsons. "One lesson I learned and apply was to take 100% responsibility for yourself and 100% responsibility for those you are serving with."

When Parsons finished speaking, ULTWMA president Bob Zook and Chopp presented the first Honor Veterans Now award, including a plaque and a blanket, to Gene Rodgers. "Rodgers served in the Army, and he has been with the War Memorial Association for many years," said Chopp. "Gene, in recognition for your services and your dedication to the War Memorial Association, we would like to present you with this red, white, and blue afghan," Chopp added. "God bless you, Gene."

Tully closed the event praying, "Lord, we ask that you would help us remember that freedom is not automatic. We have to work at it, protect it, pray for it. Freedom, like faith, needs our attention and cooperation."