St. Michael's Parish

"Freedom  is not free," said  Lt. Col. Raymond Blust, U.S. Air Force retiree and St. Michael’s alumnus. In his 18th consecutive year serving as emcee for our Veterans Day Prayer Service, Blust reminded the audience of students, teachers, parents and parishioners how important it is to honor those who have fought for our country’s freedom on Veterans Day and not to think of it as just another holiday off from school or work.

It was an especially reverent service this year with a moment of silence held for the 10th anniversary of 9/11 and a tribute to the Tomb of the Unknown soldier. Fourth grade teacher Warren Lenz opened the service with the following remarks: “We can never fully repay our debt of gratitude to the more than 650,000 American service members who died in battle, or the 1.4 million who were wounded and whose lives were changed forever. Today we gather not only to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, but also to thank and show appreciation to the 25 million veterans still living today. For you, we will be forever grateful.”

We were also blessed with the beautiful harmonies of singers Rosie and Connie Pitts, as well as the student chorus. Other participants included student readers and students assistants for a Veterans Day wreath recognition ceremony, the Honor Guard from the Benwood American Legion Post #42, and bugler Bob Lawrence.

A special thanks to Jim Altmeyer and Altmeyer Funeral Homes for underwriting the cost of our Veterans Day service and handling many of the logistic details for us.