Saluting Our Veterans
Even though the pandemic has raised a lot of questions, one thing remains true, and that is that we are forever grateful for those who fight for the greater good. So, as we leave this year and begin a new one, we would like to take a moment to spotlight those who fought for our country.
This past Veterans Day, our luxury community, Four Lakes Golf Club, paid respects to those who served. The Four Lakes Veterans Organization, led by Commander Joel Fleischman, hosted a touching ceremony paying tribute to all Veterans both Past & Present in the community’s clubhouse. Individual flags were presented to those who lost their loved ones this year that were members of the organization. It was a meaningful tribute that everyone in the room felt.
After the opening remarks, all in attendance rose for our National Anthem, followed by a poem titled “The Noble and The Brave” read by longtime resident Donna Bragdon. Veterans Mike Fox & Bob Dinklocker presented the American Flag folding while reciting the meaning behind each of the 13 folds.
Perhaps the most humbling moment to the ceremony was when a folded flag was presented to each of the Honored Guests. As the name of their spouse was announced, a bell rang between each Veteran’s name. It was a beautiful goodbye and reminder of who they were to not only their friends and family here at Four Lakes but also their country.
- Wes Schripsema, National Guard
- Bruce Deane, US Army
- Roger Goeckel, US Marine
- Bill Geddes, US Army
- John Bragdon, US Navy
- Jim Hatch, US Navy
- Ron Marlette, US Army
- Russ Lowe, US Navy
The ceremony closed with Taps followed by “God Bless America.” It’s essential to take a moment, even if just quietly alone, to contemplate the gratitude and debt we owe our veterans for allowing us to live freely in the greatest nation on Earth. If nothing else, we should be reminded that freedom isn’t free and that maintaining our independence has required the sacrifice of millions of our fellow Americans.
We are thankful not only today, not only this year but forever for your service.
Happy New Year