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Spirits are
moved by military support rally
[APRIL 24, 2003]
Five-thirty in the evening
on Wednesday, April 23, was a sunny, cool and peaceful time in
Lincoln. On the north side of the courthouse most days like this
would hardly bring to mind thoughts of war. This evening, however,
flags were being waved in the considerable breeze. Approximately
300-350 people covered the area to support those fighting a war
against people they believe are a threat to the very peace enjoyed
by all in this place. That, at least, was the consensus in the
comments of those who spoke on this occasion.
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The color guard of American Legion Post
263 marched past the large, billowing flag hanging from the
extension ladder of a firetruck. After they came to a stop on the
courthouse lawn, Sam Madonia, as emcee of the event, made opening
remarks. He said, "We support, congratulate and thank our troops."
He then introduced Fred Plese,
superintendent of Lincoln Community High School, who reminded
everyone that "September 11th was the call" and that "America was
founded fighting for freedom." He pointed out that there were 91
former LCHS students in the military at this time serving to protect
that freedom. He was proud of the "sacrifices they are making for
America and for mankind."
Rachel Sheley, who has recorded in
Nashville and whose brother serves in the 101st Airborne, then sang
"The Star-Spangled Banner." Later in the program she sang "God Bless
America, Again" and led in the singing of a medley of patriotic
songs.
Other speakers included C. Wayne
Schrader, a Korean War veteran, who emphasized how important letters
and care packages to the soldiers were. Sgt. Maj. Tom Cox of the
Illinois National Guard, a Vietnam veteran, read a list of the names
of the Illinois soldiers who had lost their lives in Operation Iraqi
Freedom. Jay Gaydosh, an Army and Marine Corps veteran, spoke of the
impression made on him by his mother writing to soldiers in Vietnam
in support of them. Linda Leslie read a poem she composed for the
event, and state Sen. Larry Bomke made a few short remarks in
support of the troops.
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[photo by Bob Frank]
[Click picture for picture page]
After a prayer by Tom Gerdts, a moment
of silence was observed for those fallen in battle. There was a
21-gun salute and the playing of taps. Sam Madonia then closed the
proceedings by having the World War II veterans from the American
Legion color guard come forward and lead in the Pledge of
Allegiance.
Afterward Nitsie Gleason, who organized
the rally, was obviously moved and pleased at how the evening had
gone. She said that she had gotten the idea to put the rally
together after seeing various Sept. 11 observances and wondering why
something could not be done in Lincoln also. She said there was only
one organized meeting planning the event. She gave Linda Leslie
credit for helping organize the rally and bringing Sam Madonia, a
former LCHS teacher and local radio personality, on board to lead
it.
Linda Leslie
also seemed pleased with how the rally turned out. Her thoughts are
with her son, Eric, who is with the 82nd Airborne in Afghanistan --
a reminder that not all those serving in harm's way are in Iraq.
[Keith C. Wilkerson] |
