Veterans honored during Clarion celebration on Monday

            The flags were waving on a chilly Monday morning as hundreds of people both young and old gathered in the high school gym for the annual Veteran’s Day program in Clarion. Many different groups participated to make the program a special event, “honoring all who served.”

            The colors were presented by the Clarion American Legion and the Clarion VFW. Veterans and their families were welcomed by master of ceremonies, Jeff Meyer. Everyone was also invited to join in saying the Pledge of Allegiance.

            “The Star-Spangled Banner” was played by C-G-D High School Band under the direction of Kent Wesselink. Wesselink is a Chief Warrant Officer Three, Commander in the 34^th Army Band with the Iowa National Guard. Special music was provided by C-D-G High School Chorus under the direction of David Ackerman. The group sang “Battle Hymn of the Republic.”

            Each branch of the military was introduced as the band played their service music. Each group was asked to stand, and as special treat, the C-G-D third graders went around and shook the service members’ hands and thanked them.

For the full story, see this week's Monitor.