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[May 29, 2012] 
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Monday the Lincoln American
Legion Post 263 spent much of the day honoring all war veterans, both living and deceased, in a traditional morning service and a
very special afternoon event.
In between the two, the Legion served a ham and
bean lunch to any who wished to stay. The lunch was free of
charge, but donations were accepted.
C. Wayne Schrader opened the morning as the
master of ceremonies, then introduced Pastor Mark Thompson of Zion Lutheran Church, who read a Joyce Kilmer poem,
"Memorial Day," and
offered the morning invocation. Kilmer was a World War 1
veteran who studied to be a journalist. After enlisting, he
was commissioned to write a book about his war experience, but he
never got the chance. Kilmer died in action on July 30, 1918.
The guest speaker for the morning was Mike
Thornton, commander of the Sons of the American Legion Post 263.
Thornton said: "As Americans we realize how precious freedom is and
the cost that has been paid throughout our existence."
Schrader introduced several visiting
dignitaries: Clyde and Edie Camp, representing AMVETS Post 71, Michelle Ramlow,
VFW 1756 commander; Dick Anderson of American Legion
Post 263; Suzann Lolling, president of American Legion Auxiliary
Unit 263; Elsie Tibbs, district president of the American Legion
Auxiliary; Jack Bishop, Marine Corps League commandant; Roseanne Coers,
county president; Wayne Wagner, senior vice commander of the state
of Illinois American Legion; Diane Umdenstock, president of the
state American Legion; and Ron Umdenstock, Fourth Division commander. Schrader also made mention of Thornton, who had just
completed speaking to the crowd.
The service ended with the presentation of the
wreath for the fallen soldier, presentation of colors, a three-volley salute and taps.
Pictures by Nila Smith |
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Pastor Mark Thompson of Zion Lutheran
Church read a poem from Joyce Kilmer, a World War I veteran, then
offered up the prayer of invocation.
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Mike Thornton, commander of the Sons of
the American Legion Post 263. |
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