After perhaps this nation’s most divisive campaign and election, the city of Aurora celebrated Veterans Day recently with a reverent but emotionally elevating parade and ceremony.
Many of the veterans and others in attendance agreed that it represented the beginning of the coming together that the USA so desperately needs.
Assembling in front of the newly renovated GAR building downtown, veterans and citizens of all colors, ages and religions created a scene of unabashed patriotism that could, if we really desire it, begin a necessary healing and feeling of “oneness.”
Diversity and allegiance were apparent everywhere. Seeing an older white veteran and a younger black veteran standing at attention and saluting during our national anthem stood out.
Adding much pomp and circumstance to the ceremony was the East High School NJROTC Corps of Cadets. Observing the students’ entry and formation were impressive, but even better was listening to their thoughts and those of their teachers — naval science instructors who are themselves veterans.
“It’s not just about Veterans Day, but about the importance of service,” said Lt. Lauren Carthen, senior naval science instructor at the school. “Service is every day. Our program celebrates Veterans Day, but we try to teach the importance of service throughout the year.”
Master Chief George Allen, beloved and long-time NJROTC instructor, spoke of his own pride as a veteran and pride he feels for the kids.
“The cadets wear a uniform once a week. It’s the same one I’ve been wearing for almost 40 years, and the same one my son wears,” he said. “The Navy program tries to make them better people, to become successful and to give honor to those who have given the ultimate sacrifice so that we can have so many of the things we take for granted.
“The students actually make my Veterans Day what it is, to see them come out here enthusiastically to honor our veterans,” he said.
This school year’s student leaders typify youngsters capable of leading the way to a hopeful, confident, and shining future for our nation.
“It’s so special to see the veterans out here who might not be wearing a uniform,” said Cadet Capt. Joaquin Miranda. “They still carry themselves to the highest standard. It has inspired me to want to join the military and become an officer. I hope to attend the U.S. Naval Academy.”
Cadet Cmdr. Vincent Delao reflected an attitude that it is now his generation’s turn to begin lives of service.
“I am proud to wear this uniform, and can’t thank veterans enough for what they’ve already done,” he said. “I can only keep saying ‘thank you’ to them. There are so many men and women who have given their lives for us to be safe at home. Whatever age they are, we can only thank them. They have kept America great.”
Well known Aurora citizen and Navy veteran Dick Schreul was one of the older vets in attendance, and also spoke to the day’s feeling of pride in our nation and the steadfast hope he sees for the coming generations.
“I’m thrilled that East Aurora, from which I graduated in 1950, has the NJROTC program,” he said. “They stand out among the other kids when I visit the school. These kids are our future.
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“I was on active duty from 1953-55 on the USS Hornet. I see the other service people and we salute each other. At a dinner gathering, I saw three generations of veterans seated together. There were also black, white, and Hispanic veterans with their military caps on, all who served. The service was a big part of my life, and I want to support those who serve today.”
Aurora’s “Honoring All Who Served” ceremony concluded with a musical salute to the armed forces by the Aurora American Legion Band. As the groups dispersed, the feeling that remained was that, as Americans, what unites us is far greater than what divides us.
Margaret Mead famously wrote: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world (or a nation); indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
Aurora’s diverse, respectful, and patriotic Veterans Day celebration made me believe that it can happen.
Tom Strong is a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News