When Lancaster County Commissioner and U.S. Navy veteran Craig Lehman stepped to the microphone at the Veterans Day 2021 veterans breakfast at the Upper Leacock Township War Memorial Association (ULTWMA), he was focused on the concept of a veteran's perspective.
"In basic training, we were taught it's not about you; it's about something larger than you. It's about the United States of America," Lehman told the gathering. "(It's about) the ideals this country stands for. It's about protecting everybody in this country." Lehman went on to note that he believes that perspective could be helpful in making a way forward to move closer to building a more perfect union.
Lehman was introduced by Pennsylvania District 43 Rep. Keith Greiner, who opened the event and thanked ULTWMA board member Robert Zook for organizing the breakfast. "When you think of Veterans Day, (you think of) times of darkness and danger when our American soldiers and veterans have stood ready to serve," Greiner said. He spoke about the origins of Veterans Day at the end of World War I in 1919 and how it has come to be a day "we honor veterans of all wars and those who have served in times of peace."
The opening prayer was offered by pastor Bruce Tully, followed by the national anthem, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the medley "Marches of the Armed Forces."
After all in attendance enjoyed a pancake and sausage breakfast, Greiner introduced U.S. Navy veteran Bill Terry, who spoke about his experiences as a medical deep-sea diver, including wearing a diving suit weighing 180 pounds. He was one of only two of a class of 160 to graduate the program. Terry has organized the Lancaster County Veterans Breakfast Club, which meets on the third Saturday of each month at 8 a.m. at the Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant, 2760 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand. Speakers have included Greiner, attorneys from the Coatesville Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and a Gold Star Mother.
Clyde Mease spoke about medical benefits afforded to veterans and Medicare plans that are available to address specific coverage situations that veterans face regarding hospitalization.
Before the event closed, Zook presented a check for $1,000 to Ed Zander, who represented Fisher House Foundation. Zander explained that Fisher House is like a Ronald McDonald House for veterans' families - a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and veterans' medical centers. "There's no cost for them to stay," said Zander.
Following the check presentation, Tully concluded the event with prayer, and taps was played in memory of departed veterans.
More information about ULTWMA may be found by searching for "Upper Leacock Township War Memorial Association" on Facebook.
Leave a Review