Wheatfield thanks veterans for serving country, community

by Ralph Schwarz
Niagara Wheatfield Tribune, November 20, 2003

Cold temperatures and light rain could not damper the festive spirit as the town of Wheatfield paid tribute to past and present servicemen and servicewomen at its annual Veterans Day on Nov. 11 at the monument in front of the Highway Garage.

With members of American Legion Wheatfield Post No. 1451 and the Conrad F. Kaina Detachment, North Tonawanda, in attendance, Town Supervisor Timothy Demler pointed out in a brief speech that America's veterans continue to serve the country and community long after their active duty in the armed forces.

"Today, we honor our veterans who did not only serve our nation during war time and in the armed services, but who continue to serve us right here in our community," he said. "They continue to help making our lives better and safer every day.

Noting the many contributions of the former servicemen and servicewomen and their roles in the community, Demler stressed the importance to thank all veterans for their efforts in times of war and peace in preserving America's freedom.

"Today is our opportunity to say 'thank you' to our veterans, our friends," he said. "Together we take pride in your accomplishments and we reflect in heroism, in your dedication, in your caring and in your love. Because of you, all of us in this country and countless millions around the world live in freedom and safety."

However, showing gratitude to the former soldiers should not end on Veterans Day, Demler added.

"Yes, today is Veterans Day, but it shouldn't be the only day that we reflect and pause to know and to remember that we as a nation and as a community owe you, our veterans, our very lives," he said. "Today and every day is our opportunity to say thank you for all and everything you have given us for so long."

Following a gathering of local veterans, town officials and residents at the American Legion Post on Ward Road, Demler handed Post Commander Willie Beutel the American flags that decorated the telephone poles along Niagara Falls Boulevard in Wheatfield. The commander then retired the flags, burning them in a fire set up in the backyard of the post.