Buffalo Grove area veterans were welcomed on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, with a complimentary luncheon and a Monday afternoon auditorium program at the Community Arts Center in Buffalo Grove.
Superintendent of Communications and Marketing Mike Terson of the Buffalo Grove Park District served as emcee.
The auditorium program followed the luncheon, with food provided by community sponsors. Community tables were also set up for veterans to visit.
The auditorium’s seating showed a dedicated turnout.
“In 1918, on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, in the 11th month, the world rejoiced and celebrated,” Terson said to the audience. “After four years of bitter war, an armistice was signed.
“The ‘war to end all wars’ was over,” Terson said. “Today we are not here to honor war, but rather the sacrifices made by others for our freedom,” Terson said.
“In honor of Veterans Day, the Buffalo Grove Park District would like to recognize those currently serving and those who have served in the military.”
Terson added that their dedication and service to America are, “greatly appreciated.”
Volunteers with the VFW Post 981 of Arlington Heights posted the colors.
“Our organization is all about helping veterans,” said Stewart Abbink of Island Lake, commander of VFW Post 981.
Music was provided by the 484th Army Band’s Brass Quintet of Arlington Heights and of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The keynote speaker was Renee Brady, an Illinois resident with a 30-plus-year United States Army military history and currently Team OIC (officer in charge) at Marseilles Training Center in Marseilles, Illinois.
Brady said it was an honor to be asked to be a speaker and for the opportunity to highlight and show gratitude, “to the men and women that have given up their time and sacrificed to serve our great nation.”
Illinois State Senator Adriane Johnson of Buffalo Grove and the 30th District attended.
“It’s important to honor our veterans, especially at a time like this,” Johnson said. “They fought and in some cases, the ultimate sacrifice.
“This is a day to honor them,” Johnson said. “But actually, every day is Veterans Day in the State of Illinois and in my family.”
Buffalo Grove Village President Eric Smith attended and said about veterans, “They should be thanked more often than they are.”
LeRoy Anderson of Riverwoods, who was drafted to serve in the United States Army from 1969 to 1970, enjoyed fellowship during the luncheon portion and was seen talking to attendees.
“It’s very nice to be thanked,” Anderson said. “We appreciate being noticed and thanked.”
Karie Angell Luc is a freelancer for Pioneer Press.
