North County honors veterans

Photo by Rick Evans.
–A Veterans Day Ceremony in Atascadero was held at the Faces of Freedom Veterans Memorial on Wednesday. The ceremony honored all veterans, past and present, and included highlights such as a flyover by the Estrella Warbirds, and a free lunch to all attendees.
Physicians and staff at Twin Cities Community Hospital gathered to recognize those men and women who have and continue to serve in the United States Armed Forces. As a special thank you to veterans, complimentary breakfast and lunch was served in the hospital cafeteria to those physicians, staff and volunteers who are a part of the military community. A cake reception was then held for all employees, providing an opportunity to salute veterans for their service and bravery.

The annual Veteran’s Day ceremony held at the Paso Robles District Cemetery was well attended by both veterans and community members. Photos by Jackie Iddings.
The Veterans Day ceremony at the Paso Robles District Cemetery was well attended by both veterans from all generations and the community.
After two vintage airplanes from the Estrella War Birds flew over and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited, Paso Robles Mayor Steve Martin praised the American troops, active and retired, for their persistence in training, in battle, and in peace time. Colonel Jan C. Norris, Commander Fort Hunter Liggett stated that the “Veteran bond is part of the uniquely American character,” crediting that bond to veterans understanding “that combat effects us in ways that others do not understand.” Norris went on to state about veterans of all the generations, “We are of the same family.”

The honor guard included members of VFW Post 10965, American Legion Post 50, and Sons of American Legion.
Community service groups were well represented at the ceremony. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by the Paso Robles Boy and Girl Scout troops. The honor guard included members of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10965, American Legion Post 50, and Sons of American Legion. Bob Chaney, Commander VFW Post 10965 was the Master of Ceremonies. Opening and closing prayers were led by Reverend Ruben Tate, Retired Sgt. USAF and singing “My Country Tis of Thee” and “America the Beautiful” was led by Marjorie Hamon. The Paso Robles District Cemetery and Kuehl-Nicolay Funeral Home saw to it that appetites were fully served by providing snacks and a hot dog lunch.