Sequim honors its veterans
Published 1:30 am Wednesday, November 17, 2021
Veterans can play a critical role in helping a divided nation come together.
Along with a message of deep gratitude, that was the central theme for Clallam County commissioner Mark Ozias as he welcomed a standing-room-only crowd inside the American Legion Jack Grennan Post No. 62 in Sequim on Nov. 11, to honor the nation’s veterans.
“Veterans can help repair the frayed fabric in our community,” Ozias said at the Veterans Day assembly, noting that veterans, perhaps better than many others, can help people on the Peninsula understand they are part of “something greater than ourselves.”
Ozias added, “We ask your help in getting us there. Help us to share in the common cause of the American dream.”
Paul Renick, the American Legion post commander, led a somber service that featured members of the newly formed Junior American Citizens club leading the Pledge of Allegiance and prayers for peace from post chaplain Nancy Zimmermann.
Judy Tordini of the Michael Trebert Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution led a three-part observance of the 100th anniversary of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a remembrance that included a 21-bell salute, two one-minute moments of silence (one for veterans who gave their lives, a second for those who will in the future) and the playing of “Taps” by the post’s bugler.
Ozias paid tribute to a number of veterans in his family who served in wars and military action, from a grandfather who served in World War II and an uncle who served in Vietnam to a step-brother who served in Bosnia and two active duty nephews. He also thanked his fellow county commissioners, Randy Johnson and Bill Peach, for their military service.
“Grant us patience in planning with our fellow men a world in which nations may resolve their differences by peaceful means,” post chaplain Nancy Zimmerman said in a closing prayer.
“Touch thy souls of men and every man with the enduring light of wisdom so they may form a brotherhood of peoples which will strive to further the arts of peace under laws and ethics blessed by thee.”
Veterans also received special hand-made banners celebrating the different branches of the U.S. military from Sequim Middle School students.
