EDITORIAL: Let’s keep the tributes coming

The commemorations of Veterans Day in the Greencastle-Antrim community in 2010 and those who were part of organizing them are to be commended. We believe the various ceremonies had a special feel this year and were pleased that there were even more venues to choose from.

The community offered both a morning ceremony at the definitive 11th hour and also a new evening tribute. Especially important was the continuation of a Veterans Day assembly at the high school. We think it’s fitting that instead of taking a day off school that the district uses the occasion as another lesson for the students. The program has a lot to offer to enhance the patriotism of our youngest citizens. As this year’s program did, hearing from former students of the school who are now serving their country is especially fitting and effective.

The annual outdoor ceremony conducted by the VFW and American Legion was poignant as always. With the backdrop of the new Veterans Memorial and its realistic depiction of each of our country’s engagements is, as always, an inspiring location for such a ceremony. We believe the outdoor location is apropos for the occasion. The ceremony was inspiring as usual.

And finally the spirit of remembrance did not end just before noon Nov. 11. It instead extended into the evening when the Greencastle-Antrim Chamber of Commerce inaugurated a new tribute to veterans in the high school auditorium. The first such ceremony last week proved particularly moving with remarks from two more G-AHS alumni who are currently serving and reflections on wounded warriors offered by Joel Fridgen, chamber executive director. The use of the middle school band was important as the younger member of our community were made a part of the remembrance. The program offered an alternative for those who cannot attend a ceremony during the day and a more friendly, and warmer, environment.

The addition of the evening tribute was a perfect exclamation point to our community commemoration of the day. We praise the chamber for its efforts and encourage all to attend as the organization aims to make this an annual activity. Suggestions for 2011 are being accepted by the chamber by calling 597-4610 or by e-mail to info@greencastlepachamber.org

Again, kudos to the community for its dedication to remembering a day devoted to those who have made a unique sacrifice. Let’s hope that special feeling for this day lasts for many years to come.

*****

The tribute to our veterans can continue in Greencastle-Antrim with another program of the chamber being conducted with Heritage Christmas. All are invited to the Greencastle Presbyterian Church, 57 W. Baltimore St., from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Fridays, Dec. 3 and/or 10 to make a Christmas card that will be sent to a person serving in the military from the area. Supplies and mailing will be furnished. Please make an effort to be part of this outreach.