By Chris Spangler
Members of local veterans organizations gathered at the American Legion Dugout in Fort Atkinson Thursday for a Veterans Day salute.
Members of the Paul Frank Florine Post 166 of the American Legion and Edwin Frohmader Post 1879 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars held a brief ceremony remembering all who have served in America’s military and those who have sacrificed their lives for their country.
It is held annually at 11 a.m. … the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month to remember the ceasefire following the signing of the armistice, ending World War I.
Rainfall stopped just in time for Legion Commander Joel Osmundson to give remarks, Chaplain Roger Faultersack to offer a prayer and the honor guard to fire three volleys in memory of the fallen.
According to the American Legion, the original history of the rifle salute comes from the Roman era. At the end of the day when the field of battle was cleared, if the soldier knew the name of the slain comrade he was removing from the field, he would call his name three times into the night as a form of remembering his sacrifice.
At military funerals, typically three fired cartridges are placed into the folded flag prior to presentation to the next of kin. The cartridges signify “duty, honor, and sacrifice.”
After the brief service, the Fort Atkinson veterans and guests enjoyed a chili lunch inside the Legion Dugout.
American Legion Commander Joel Osmundson, at right, welcomes veterans and guests. He is aided by Legion Chaplain Roger Faultersack.
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Members of the colorguard present the colors at the Veterans Day ceremony.
The honor guard shoots three volleys in memory of those who have given their lives for their country.
Photos by Chris Spangler.
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