By Beth Christian
Broschart
The Parsons Advocate
DAVIS – Despite rain, snow, sleet and cold, nearly 100 people came out to lend their support and to thank local Veterans for their service. On Sunday, the Veteran’s Memorial in Davis was dedicated to all American Veterans and it honors those who served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard. Keynote speaker for the event was Colonel Al Tomson of Davis.
“I thanked the people who donated and built the memorial and recognized the Veterans,” Tomson said. “I talked about the materials that were used to build the memorial and how those represented the qualities and attributes of the Veterans.”
Tomson said they represent steadfastness, ruggedness and strength. “I talked about the memorial representing the past, the present and the future in terms of the community. The past is represented in the people that left what they knew – their loved ones, friends and family – to serve and defend the nation. They protected our democracy and kept us safe.”
Tomson said when the Veterans came back they resumed their lives and continued building America.
“But that yesterday is represented today when people can go to the memorial to think and to contemplate what all has happened in our history and what the Veterans have done to support that history. It is a place to reflect and it is a somber spot.”
Tomson said the monument also represents the future.
“Children can be brought there and they can be taught what Veterans have done, they can be taught that Veterans come from all walks of life, they have shared values of loyalty, honor and integrity. They are the future that is ready to take our places. The country is in good hands. We thank the Veterans for what they have done for us in the past, in the present and we know they will always be there in the future.”
The invocation and benediction were given by Pastor John Callaway of the Community Bible Church in Davis. During the service, the colors included a WWII era American Flag with 48 stars. A memorial wreath was laid next to the memorial by Fred Myers and Charlie Showalter. Dan Barkley had some musical presentations.
There was a 21 gun salute with American Legion Post 10077 out of Deer Park, Md., and cadets from the Rubenstein Center served as Color Guard. An Honor Guard from the Tucker County Veterans was also at Sunday’s dedication.