Today, I had the honor of speaking at the Veterans' Committee recognition breakfast where Hanover Park Veterans were honored. This breakfast was organized by our Veterans' Committee and worked and hosted by Boy Scout Troop 398 in partnership with the Hanover Park Lions recognition.
The text below is the message I delivered today.
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I am truly honored to have the opportunity to be with you as we reflect on the importance of this day as our first initiative in my memory to honor the Veterans of Hanover Park.
Gathering together today to celebrate the Honor of those who have served our Country makes this a special day for all current and former residents of Hanover Park.
As your Mayor it has been my need to recognize those have served our Country. Following the tragic events of Sept 11, 2001 we named Greenbrook Drive “Freedom Way,” and we recognized those who lost their lives in New York and Pennsylvania in addition to the Veterans of Hanover Park.
On Monday, Memorial Day, at 10:00 AM we will again return to Memorial Park on Freedom Way to reflect on the service and sacrifices of American Soldiers, Veterans, their families, and all who support the U.S. military men and women in so many different ways. When we think of all those who have so valiantly fought for our country, we must consciously remember that they have given much – being away from their families, witnessing horrific destruction and pain, and for some giving the ultimate sacrifice of their lives -- so that we might have the freedom we are enjoying this minute and will continue to enjoy tomorrow.
St. Augustine was once quoted as saying that “the purpose of all war is ultimately peace.” I believe that as Americans we understand this quote very well.
The words “United We Stand” and “God Bless America” stir my heart each and every time I hear them. It is not by accident, but rather by design, that we recite the Pledge of Allegiance at all of our official meetings.
Every time we speak those words as we meet to serve the people of Hanover Park, we must remember that our ultimate purpose is to serve not only our community, but also our country.
We must also remain aware that every decision that we make -- however big or small, even at our local level of government here in the proud community of Hanover Park -- should be one that we believe will serve our citizens well and one that we will be proud to defend in the future.
Today, to Kick off our Honor Roll Celebration is a special day to remember and give thanks to all the Veteran’s who have fought so hard for us so that we have all the things in life we can be thankful for and hold in such a high honor as we do the Red, White and Blue of our American Flag.
So let us reflect on these words which are excerpted from the poem “The Soldier” by Father Dennis Edward O’Brien, United States Marine Corp, as we celebrate today:
“It is the Soldier, not the preacher, who has given us freedom of religion; It is the Soldier, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech; It is the Soldier, not the lawyer, who has given us the right to a fair trial; It is the Soldier, not the politician, who has given us the right to vote; It is the Soldier who salutes the flag, who serves proudly beneath the flag...”
Let’s give a big thanks to all of our Veterans here today.
Please join me in the Pledge of Allegiance.
In closing, I ask that you enjoy the Memorial day weekend!! And be sure to let your feelings of patriotism and love for those who have served our country show in whatever way feels right to you. Proudly display the American flag outside your home, have parties and social events with your friends and family, share stories with those who have experienced firsthand what it means to call oneself a “Veteran.”
