Last Monday, the Club observed Veterans Day, the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, which in 1918 commemorated Armistice Day and then a few years later was made into a national holiday to recognize all Citizen Solders, Sailors, Marines, and Airman who have taken an oath to the Constitution, thereby putting themselves in harm's way, wherever and whenever that might occur. For Rotarian Veterans that oath is the ultimate declaration of Service Above Self.
Our Club Veterans took the high ground at the outset of the meeting, introducing themselves, their branch of service and deployment, and then leading us in the Pledge of Allegiance. You didn't have to be there to appreciate that moment in time, but it was inspirational! A recap of the impromptu remarks is at: https://youtu.be/MvwrKwgishw
It will be updated with additional input from Veterans who were not able to attend at the meeting. (One of them was Bob Davis who in September completed his 50th year as a Rotarian. Bob will be recognized at a future meeting.)
MG John Gronski, our luncheon speaker, then took the hill and provided highly insightful reflections and ruminations about the life-changing sacrifices from others that he witnessed during his long and distinguished career. He used three examples from the challenges of fellow service members to describe how they prevailed against tremendous adversity to body and soul. Our thanks to him for sharing those profound experiences, stories from Veterans Day that should reinvigorate our commitment to service.
And, now more inspiration is coming at the next meeting on November 25, when we again welcome students of the month, from the three local high schools in our Club's area.
Please plan to attend the lunch.