There are several reasons why Americans enlist in the military, Allen County Commissioner Jerry Daniels said Saturday.
For some, it’s a family tradition. For others, it’s a sense of patriotism, a willingness to fight for the country. For some, it’s a chance for a better job.
In any circumstance, days like Saturday provide opportunity for all Americans to thank veterans of all stripes.
Daniels, an Army veteran who served during Desert Storm and later for the National Guard, delivered the keynote address as part of Veterans Day ceremonies in downtown Iola.
“Most veterans are cut from the same cloth,” Daniels said. “They want to fight the good fight, asking for that privilege to serve, for God and for country.”
They don’t necessarily embrace what’s in front of them, Daniels said, but they serve “because they love what’s behind them at home, just like you folks.”
Daniels noted the history of Veterans Day, originally celebrated as Armistice Day to note the end of World War I.
President Eisenhower changed the designation in 1954, at the request of a Kansas congressman from Emporia, Ed Reece, who had heard the suggestion of another Emporia man.
“The idea of honoring all veterans came from Kansas,” Daniels noted.
He encouraged all in attendance to offer their thanks to veterans, as well as others in uniform, such as law enforcement, ambulance personnel, firefighters, or other types of first responders.
“They appreciate it,” he said.
He also lauded the spouses and family members of those who serve.
“They’re the ones who sometimes fight the toughest battle of all, the not knowing.”
PHOTO: At top, the Allen Community College baseball team carries a giant flag beneath an American flag displayed by the Iola Fire Department during the Veterans Day parade Saturday in downtown Iola. At middle left, Allen County Commissioner Jerry Daniels provides the keynote address. At bottom left, Keith Gomez dons a patriotic hat as he records Saturday’s ceremony. Above, Bill Campbell was among the veterans honored with a ceremony at Lincoln Elementary School. REGISTER/RICHARD LUKEN
