Memorial Day Tribute

The Thorp Courier (Thorp, WI)
May 30, 2007
Transcribed by Dolores Mohr Kenyon

Community members came to remember fallen soldiers from past and current wars

The Veterans’ Memorial Park was filled with citizens of all ages who turned out to show their respect to fallen soldiers.  Soldiers from the First World War up to present day Iraq were honored in the celebration.

The Thorp Scouts started out the event with a Presentation of Colors.  Everyone stood and recited the Pledge of Allegiance.  Post Chaplain Rodney Shuk gave the Invocation, followed by remarks by Post 118 Commander Bob Hmielak.  Mr. Hmielak talked a little about the history of Veteran’s Day and stressed its importance.  You could feel the emotions in the air as all in attendance remembered past and present soldiers.  The Thorp High School and Middle School Bands performed the National anthem.

Mr. Robert Stone, Rusk County Veterans’ Service Officer from Sheldon, WI gave his heartfelt Memorial Day address with emotion and candor.  During his address he called forward Auxiliary President Lilian Hedler and presented her with a poppy.  Genevieve Petranovich laid the poppy wreath against the gun and helmet memorial placed in front of the tank at Veterans’ Memorial Park and the band played another selection with Lindsay Dill’s direction.

The skies were bright and blue and the day could not have been more perfect.  Diane Weggen came forward and announced the winners of the American Poppy Poster Contest.  The children came forward and received a poppy and a certificate.

Rodney Shuk reported that the Legion has lost five comrades this last year, while the Auxiliary has lost four Auxiliary members recognized by Ann Huls.  They were remembered this Memorial Day as they will be at every Veteran’s Memorial celebration to come.  The service they have given their country will not soon be forgotten. The firing squad sounded its salute followed by the playing of taps.

It was a beautiful celebration and in closing Ann Huls led the crowd in singing The Star-Spangled Banner and Rodney Shuk gave the benediction as many solemn and tearful faces slowly walked away from Veterans’ Memorial Park. 

Poppy Wreath Presentation

On May 28 Genevieve Petranovich placed the poppy wreath beside a gun and helmet memorial during the Memorial Day celebration to honor fallen Veterans.  The day was sunny and beautiful and many people came to show their respect.