As an organizer of the recent Memorial Day ceremony, I felt it was important to recognize veterans in attendance and the people who work behind the scenes to make the ceremonies a success. In my remarks, I acknowledged many of the veteran groups in our community and some of the people who assisted in setting up the plaza. I somehow omitted a very important veterans group and a couple of people who always assist in setup.

I apologize and will recognize them in this letter. In doing so, I run the risk of again missing someone else, and for that I am truly sorry.

One very important veterans group that I omitted in my remarks was the veterans of the Cold War. These are the veterans who served in an unappreciated role after the Vietnam War.

In recognizing the people who help in setup, I failed to acknowledge Don Anderson, who has been at every ceremony for many years and takes down the stage and sound system. Kevin Wood has also been instrumental in setting up and taking down the systems.

Lastly, I have been watching the news regarding the 75th anniversary of the Normandy Invasion and have some thoughts. I can’t watch any of these ceremonies without having tears come to my eyes when looking at these survivors of the “Greatest Generation.” I think back and remember the celebrations at the end of WWII. This country was united at a time of great conflict. I wish we could experience that feeling again, but it would take people agreeing to disagree over politics instead of all the acrimony I see now. Sadly, I don’t see any hope of change except for things to get worse.