This article was written by Stephanie Vavra.
Even though it was an autumn day of remembrance, on Monday, November 11, 2019, American Legion members wore their winter dress hats. Bob Atherton is shown in 2015, when hats were first purchased. Steady wind, light snow, and a temperature in the low 20s made this appropriate. It affected the number of citizens who participated, too; there were about a dozen A mother wrapped a little blanket around her young daughter, but the wind tore at it. One member stated new winter coats would be ordered soon.
The annual Veterans Day observance began under direction of Sergeant at Arms Jerry Brearton, at 10:55 a.m., at Veterans Park and Memorial in Grove HiIl Cemetery, High Street, Morrison, IL. He faced eight Legionnaires and called the men to order.
Left-to-right are Michael Allen (holding the flag); James Prombo; Phil Schroeder; Commander Terry Jones; Kenneth Petersen; Robert Brands; Jeff Steele; Larry Zuidema.
After a few speedy words, Brearton announced that Morrison Fire Department would sound the alarm at 11:00 for one minute. Everyone faced the East, where most World War 1 conflict took place, during the “War to End All Wars.” The siren wailed across the City.
Seven Legionnaires fired a round of three volleys, and “Taps” was played by Carolyn Aiken. She stood behind and to the left of the United States flag. Aiken first performed this poignant melody on October 25, 1967. This is her 52nd year of service to veterans.
Later, at the American Legion Hall, 306 E. Main Street, Morrison, IL, winners of the fundraising raffle were drawn. Aaron Johnson won $25; Mike Morgan won $50; Darlene Smith won the choice of $250 or a Shopping Spree at Sullivan’s Foods.
Brearton stated the proceeds will be earmarked “for our charities.” These include a High School scholarship and funding Boys State attendees; awards to an 8th grade boy and girl, chosen by their peers as the Most Patriotic Citizens.
