by Susan
Sunday my husband and I attended a concert honoring our veterans. It was performed by the Music Department at Missouri State University and was very moving. The band played a number of patriotic numbers including an original version of Yankee Doodle. There was dancing, a really tall Uncle Sam on stilts and a guest speaker.
The guest speaker was Ralph Manly a 78 year old veteran of WWII. He was an energetic fellow who had served the United States for many years and was also wounded six times.
Another highlight of the afternoon was the special recognition which was given to all in the audience who served in either the Army, Marines, Air Force, Navy or Coast Guard. The band played the music for each branch of the service as those who served stood and were applauded. My husband stood with the Army. My brother and my father were also in the Army. My oldest son was in the Navy.
I found it especially moving when a single bugler played taps. It brought tears to my eyes as I recalled my father's funeral service. In my opinion, honoring our veterans is one of the most patriotic things we can do.