Skip to main content

A Salute to the Troops Veterans Day 2016

Page 1

Section A $1.00

A Salute To the Troops

VETERANS DAY 2016

A two-section supplement to The News Sun, The Herald Republican and The Star November 11, 2016


kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

A2

102 N. Main Street, Kendallville, IN 46755 (260) 347-0400

Mike Marturello mmarturello@kpcmedia.com Special Sections Editor

Terry G. Housholder

Amy Oberlin

thousholder@kpcmedia.com

aoberlin@kpcmedia.com

President/Publisher

Reporter

Randy Mitchell

Jennifer Decker

randymitchell@kpcmedia.com

jdecker@kpcmedia.com

Chief Executive Officer

Reporter

S. Rick Mitchell

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

rickmitchell@kpcmedia.com

Michele Trowbridge Jonathan Anderson Jeff Jones Cindy Miller Jenny Ernsberger Shira Pacult Machele Waid

Chief Financial Officer

Joy Newman jnewman@kpcmedia.com Advertising Director

Ann Saggars asaggars@kpcmedia.com Creative Manager

Tracey Robideau trobideau@kpcmedia.com Special Sections Graphic Designer

Salute to the Troops is a special supplement to the The Star, The Herald Republican and The News Sun which are publications of KPC Media Group Inc. ©2016 All rights reserved

2016

Happy Veterans Day Northeast Indiana is rich with its history of sending men and women into harm’s way to protect our way of life in the United States. A look around shows the importance we place on our veterans and their service, from the many veterans organizations in each of our four counties to the glorious Steuben County Soldier’s Monument that stands proud on the Public Square in downtown Angola as a tribute to the 1,278 men who served in the nation’s Civil War. This section is a tribute to all who served, many of whom you will find in these pages. Just like last year when we first

took on this special project, the money generated by the photos of the veterans featured in this section is being donated back to veterans organizations in our four-county area. Take some time to check out the many veterans honored in these pages. Maybe you will see a neighbor, a loved one or someone who is a memory from long ago. Also, we have included some special features in this section that illustrate some of the brave veterans from our communities. And there’s even a story about how you can get involved with Northeast Indiana Honor Flights. This section may also be found at KPCNews.com.

FREMONT AMERICAN LEGION POST 257 "In Memory of those we've lost" Veterans still serving our city, state and nation

VETERAN? OR RELATIVE OF A VETERAN? PLEASE COME & ENJOY OUR LEGION AND INQUIRE ABOUT A MEMBERSHIP. WE’D LOVE TO HAVE YOU! Tuesday Nights – Food Specials • Wednesday Nights – Treasure Hunt Drawing Thursday Nights – Corn Hole/Wings • Friday Nights – Fish Fry (Fish, Shrimp, Frog Legs) Monthly – Legion Riders Ribeye Steak Dinner Cookout - includes salad, potato, dessert - $12 The Auxiliary, Legion and Fremont Chamber of Commerce will sponsor Santa’s Visit to the Legion on Saturday, December 3, beginning at 5:30 p.m. 301 S. Wayne St., Fremont, IN (260) 495-9329


2016

Adrian Duesler

was killed in WWII. Post 243 keeps his memory alive.

Carroll Skipper

Served in the Navy during WW2. His children are Post 243 members.

Edward Vsetula

Uncle of Becky Vsetula. Served in the U.S. Navy in WWII. Post 243.

©KPC Media Group Inc. • kpcnews.com

Alan Lusenhop

Was in the Air Force from 1968 - 1972. He is a past finance officer of Post 243.

Don Meyers

served in the Marine Corps. Post 243 is proud of his service.

Ernest L. Vsetula

served in the U.S. Air Force in Korea, uncle of Becky Vsetula, Post 243.

Archie A. Ball

son of Archie V. Ball, served in the Navy in 1971. He is an active member of Post 243.

Gary Garber

Served 20 years in he U.S.A.F. Post 243 is proud to know Gary.

Imogene and Bill

Imogene and Bill joined the Air Force together in the 1950’s. They now live in Texas and Post 243 is proud of them.

A3

Archie V. Ball

served in the U.S. Army from 1948-1968 with tours in Korea and Germany. Died Nov. 2, 2014. Post 243 is proud of his service.

Glen Waller

Received his commission following the attack of Pearl Harbor. He reported for duty February 11, 1942 at Wright Field in Dayton, Ohio. Post 243.

Chuck Sellers

was in the Navy. He is related to Sue Kennard, a very active Post 243 member.


2016

kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

A4

Amy Hager

Is a United States Air Force Veteran who is a great asset to West Noble American Legion Post 243.

George V. Vsetula

Carroll “Peck” Leitch

Was in the 698 Inf. in WW2. He was in Germany and was highly decorated. Post 243.

Grover Patrick

Gene Steele U.S. Army

Served in the U.S. Army and is a currrent member of Post 243.

Eldon “Hank” Lippert

Uncle of Becky Vsetula, Post 243. Served in the U.S. Army.

served in the U.S. Navy during WW2. He was the Mayor of Ligonier and Post 243 is very proud of him.

Served in the Navy in WW2 on the L.S.T. 668 in the Pacific. Post 243.

Dean Holden

Jack W. Gaerte

Sgt. Jack LeCount

served in the Navy during WW2. He was a Past Post Commander of Post 243.

Was in the infantry in the Pacific during WW2. He received two Purple Hearts and the Bronze Star. Post 243 is very proud to have known Jack.

served in the U.S. Army from 1948-1952 in Japan and Korea. He is a Past Commander of Post 243.

Henry Wentzel

was killed in Burma in WWII. A cousin of Henry Vsetula. Post 243.

Dan Hathaway U.S. Marines

He served in the U.S. Marines during Vietnam. He is a past Post 243 Trustee.

James Vsetula

Uncle of Becky Vsetula, Post 243. Served in Korea. Spent 18 months on the front line before he was wounded in action.


2016

©KPC Media Group Inc. • kpcnews.com

A5

HONORING ALL WHO SERVED

We are grateful for all who have fought for our freedoms!

BURNWORTH ZOLLARS

Family Owned and Operated

bzautos.com

Monument Sales • Demdaco and Dickson Gift Items Pre Need ~ At Need ~ Family After Care

1277 C.R. 56 • Garrett • 357-0444 Thomas Drzewiecki Director/Owner

Go Further

260-894-3127 260-894-7176 US Hwy 6, Ligonier, IN

574-773-7878 2450 N. Main St., Nappanee, IN KPC Media Group PROOF Corrections must be made by 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 3 or ad will be assumed correct and run as is.

WE PROUDLY SALUTE OUR VETERANS!

ANGOLA AMERICAN LEGION FOR GOD AND COUNTRY WE ASSOCIATE TOGETHER FOR COMMUNITY, STATE AND NATION. WE ARE VETERANS STILL SERVING AMERICA.

“American Legion wants you.”

We cordially invite you to stop by the Angola American Legion today and discover all of the benefits of becoming a member! We are always seeking new members to promote community involvement and participation!

“Proud To Serve Those Who Served”

LEGION POST PROGRAMS: • Americanism & Government • American Legion Baseball • Boys State/Boys Nation • Girls State/Girls Nation • High School Oratorical • Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts • Flag Education • Junior Shooting Sports

BINGO AND FISH FRYS

• Junior Law Cadet Program • Law Enforcement Officer of the Year • School Teacher of the Year • Fire Fighter / EMS of the Year • Eagle Scout of the Year • Girl Scout of the Year • Scholarships Programs Are Open To ALL School Children

PROGRAMS, EVENTS, BINGO AND FISH FRYS ALL OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!

Sunday - 5 PM Monday & Thursday 6 PM

Fish Fry Friday 5 - 7 PM

1760 W. MAUMEE ST., ANGOLA • 665-3363


2016

kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

A6

Alex Nakoff

served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. Cousin of Becky Vsetula, Post 243.

Ed Creamer

Was a POW in WW2. Post 243 misses him.

David L. Depew

Served in Desert Storm in 1989. He is a grandson of George Alex Baker. Post 243.

Donald F. Rasbaugh

David Magnus

Served in the U.S. Navy during WW2. He was able to go on the Honor Flight before his passing. Post 243 misses him.

served in the Army and Air Force Reserve. He has been the Commander of Post 243 for over four years.

Henry “Edwin” White

Pvt. Eugene Wheeler

Served on a ship in WW2. Post 243.

Martin Anderson

was a Mule Skinner in Burma in 1942, hauling supplies over the Himalayan Mountains until they started using airplanes. He was an MP for the rest of WW2. Post 243.

Served as a B-17 Crew Chief in WW2. Post 243.

Edward J. Magers

Served in the Signal Corps in WWI. He is Tommy and Charles Magers’ father. A great Post 243 family.

SSgt. Melvin Cory WW2 Army Air Corp. Post 243 is proud of Mel.

Allie Alfrey US Army WW1

One of the first members of American Legion Post 243

Henry Vsetula

Served in Japan and Korea in 8th tank during the Korean Conflict. His daughter is Post 243’s Auxiliary Historian.


2016

©KPC Media Group Inc. • kpcnews.com

A7

Injured Vietnam veteran not a casualty BY AMY OBERLIN aoberlin@kpcmedia.com

ANGOLA — The Vietnam War took Charles Hall’s eyes and legs, but it didn’t take his spirit. After a year in military medical hospitals, Hall returned to the area at 22 years old, married his sweetheart and started a family. He’s worked a variety of jobs and been involved his children’s and grandchildren’s school and social functions. Hall, 72, has a home in Angola, and every year his family dresses up to greet the hoards of trick-or-treaters that descend on the neighborhood. His son Jamie and daughter Chris describe the children’s costumes as they come to the door, and Hall laughs as he talks about them. “There was this really cute one. Mom and Dad, they somehow had on a garbage can,” he said. “There were a lot of people with babies this year.” With loving attention from family members, Hall has enjoyed his life. He

has three children, Christina, Jamie and Scott, eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He can describe the cars he’s owned and their features, how to fix them and how they drive. Being completely blind, Hall never operated them, of course; his late wife, Joyce, did, and later their children. His favorites include a Model A and a 1941 Mercury. One of nine brothers and sisters, Hall credits a close family for his recovery and comfort. “We always stuck together,” he said. His family has gone through troubles and tragedies, but Hall can still smile and laugh. He grew up in West Unity, Ohio and was drafted at the age of 20. “If I knew what I know now, I probably would have gone to Canada,” said Hall, who spent his 21st birthday in a hospital bed, surrounded by severely wounded soldiers. “That war See VIETNAM VETERAN page A11

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Charles Hall and his son Jamie Hall sit outside Charles’ Angola home.

My Dad… MY HERO In 1965 at age 19 he was drafted into the Army. From here he went to Fort Knox, then to California, then Hawaii, then Vietnam. Like any young man Dad was not thrilled to have to leave his hometown for the unknown. He was a tunnel rat serving in the 25th Infantry Tropic Lightning Division. In July of 1966 at just 20 years old he was walking along with two other soldiers in front of him. They stepped on a land mine. He followed.

Dad, Charles Hall Dad and I

He woke up in Valley Forge, PA hearing the song Sunshine Superman by Donovan. “Sunshine came softly a-through my a-window today.“ His sight was gone. His legs were gone. They had to sever them because of gangrene. He was sent to rehabilitation at the Hines Blind Center in Chicago. He learned to walk with wooden legs and crutches. He learned to read and type brail. Prior to his departure to the war he had met my Mom at Angola’s A and W where she worked. When he returned she made trips back and forth to visit him. They were married on Lake Avenue in Chicago in 1967. Mom was just 17. Dad persevered and moved forward with his life.

Dad and Mom (Charles and Joyce Hall)

When they were able, they came back to live in Angola. Dad had a lot of support from family and friends and his Grandma Albertson. She was wonderful. Dad went to work for Brammel, then Transguard. Dad never complained. He and Mom went on to have three children. At home he did all the cooking and always worked on cars. He loved gardening and always grew a nice flowerbed. He still makes some of the best stuffing for a turkey. He cleaned the house and still does. He would throw the ball and I could hit it. I was his eyes for him when I was a kid. We used to go driving together. Dad would steer and I would run the pedals. When he would get to feeling sorry for himself he would just hug one of us kids. And now, his grandkids keep him going. He went back to college in his 30’s. Counselor Nancy Perry helped guide my Dad and had a real impact on him. He graduated from Tri-State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences in 1982. He wanted

Mom, Dad and I

to teach the blind but that never came to fruition. Dad has been used as a political talking point for years. Known for his positive outlook and strength, he has been used to help inspire others who have returned from war with injuries. He went to Florida and was in a film promoting the use of bionic legs. They had him going up and down the steps with his wooden legs and crutches to show other survivors the difference between mobility then and mobility now to serve as inspiration to them. He’s probably the most humble person you’d ever want to meet. He’s just the toughest guy I know. My worst day is not as bad as his best day. He still has pieces of steel shrapnel come out of his body to this day. Here’s a guy who’s lived his whole life with those legs strapped on him. He is an inspiration. Thank you Dad. I’ve always looked up to you. You are my hero and my inspiration.

randson Dad’s step-g Kyle

Dad and I

Dad and Jada

Be sure to thank a Veteran today. And if you see Charlie Hall be sure to thank him too. That’s My Dad!

~ Jamie Hall

CURRENT AND FORMER MILITARY PERSONNEL RECEIVE 10% OFF THEIR DEDUCTIBLE!

1001 South Wayne Street, Angola, IN 665-0077


2016

kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

A8

Alva Mynhier

Jack Lepird

served in WWII. His wife helps Post 243.

served in United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. He is a long-time member of Post 243.

Morris Garber

Dale Edward Hively

The son of Morris, Sr. Served in the U.S. Army. Post 243.

Edd Gaerte

Served on a Destroyer in the Gulf of Tonkin during the Vietnam War. Post 243.

Post 243 remembers him.

Vern Duesler

Served in WWI with his brother and Post 243 is sure proud of their service.

James Plough

served in the Marine Corps. A great Post 243 supporter.

Grover Duncan Webb

Served in WW1. He died from mustard gas poisoning. He is George Baker’s father-in-law. Freedom is not free. Post 243.

EL Rey Magnus

He was a glider pilot, paratrooper, and pathfinder during WW2. When the war ended, he was assigned to MacArthur’s military government in Tokyo. Post 243.

Dwight Green

was a famous Governor of Illinois. A WWI Vet from Ligonier Post 243.

Alvin Ruff

Served in the U.S. Army during WW2. His family is members of Post 243 and we all thank him for his service.

Ray Swank

served with the U.S.A.F. during Vietnam. Post 243 will miss him.


2016

©KPC Media Group Inc. • kpcnews.com

Billman’s Propane honors our Veterans and Military.

Thank you for your service to our country.

A9

VETERAN’S DAY TAKE

TIME TO HONOR THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO HAVE SELFLESSLY SERVED OUR COUNTRY.

THANK

YOU.

1560 S. State Road 9, LaGrange , IN 46761 260-463-3311

In Memory of Thank you for your service & sacrifice Those Who Served Kendallville Post 86

322 S. Main St., Kendallville

347-9978

THE AMERICAN LEGION

AUXILIARY

SUPERMARKET

SONS OF THE

AMERICAN LEGION

LEGION

ALBRIGHT’S

RIDERS

ALBRIGHT’S FAMOUS QUALITY MEATS

www.albrightsonestop.com CORUNNA, INDIANA • 260-281-2691


2016

kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

A10

Armando Chuck Cooley

Charles E. Magers

served in the U.S. Marines during the Korean War. His grandchildren are Post 243 members.

Was in the Army Air Force stationed in Alaska from 1942 ‘til 1945. He is Tommy Magers’ brother. Post 243.

Frank Vsetula

Gary T. Fraley Marines, PFC

uncle of Becky Vsetula, Post 243. Served in Po Vally, Italy in WWII.

James Jay Rose

Was a Spec 4 in the Army from 1969-1971. He is married to Floyd Maxon’s daughter. Post 243.

Hamilton American Legion, Post 467, remembers our fallen soldiers.

Michael K. Hooley

He served in the U.S. Navy. Post 243 and his family miss him.

Dr. Gregory Baker

Served in the Marines. He is the Principal of West Noble High School. A Post 243 favorite.

Danny Mitchell

Floyd Oren Maxon, Jr.

Was in WW2. He was a Private whose family members are strong supporters of Post 243.

Glade Rupert

was with the U.S. Marines during the Vietnam War. He is a current member of Post 243

Served in the U.S. Army as a dentist in WW1. He was in four major battles. He was the first Commander of American Legion Post 243. He died at age 50.

Art Hathaway

Paul H. Steinbarger Killed in Africa April 25, 1943. Post 243.

served in WW2. Post 243 keeps his memory alive.


VIETNAM VETERAN

2016

©KPC Media Group Inc. • kpcnews.com

A11

From page A7

was absolutely stupid. Any war is senseless.” Following advanced training in Hawaii, Hall was stationed with the Army’s 25th infantry division in South Vietnam. A small man, he started his tour searching tunnels for enemy soldiers. “I did that for maybe five weeks, and I just couldn’t do it any more,” he said. Along with encountering the enemy and random stashes of hashish, Hall one time went in one side of a tunnel and emerged by himself in the middle of a thick jungle. He doesn’t remember much about the landmine. Hall was a platoon squad leader, behind the point man when he tripped the mine and was instantly killed. Fourteen people, including Hall, were wounded in the explosion. He was initially taken to Valley Forge hospital. During his critical phase, his mother, Mary Jane Petre, received letters from the American Red Cross telling about the numerous blood transfusions he was getting. He was released in June 1967, and after living a couple of months with his parents, began a life and family with Joyce. He had a few jobs, including working for Lynn Munger in his nursery, at Brammel Inc. and Transguard. He earned a bachelor of arts degree from Tri-State University in 1982. Hall lives in Steuben County during the warm months, and has a place in Florida in the winter. Prior to her death three years ago, he and his girlfriend Belle would go to the country music shows at Cypress Gardens, Lakeland Theatre and other Florida hot spots. Recently, Hall received a new pair of computerized legs. While they took some getting used to, he said, his $70,000 appendages are working out well. “All in all, I’ve had a good life,” he said. “You take what you get.”

MY COMMUNITY Submit your news & photos at

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

The Orland American Legion Riders held a cookout on July 4 for residents at the Richard Lugar Safe Haven for Veterans home in Fort Wayne, presenting them with a check and a picnic table for their yard that was signed by all the riders.

The funds came from a charity ride hosted by the Orland American Legion Riders. Legion Riders from throughout the area participated in the charity ride. Photo contributed

AL Riders drive community road BY JENNIFER DECKER jdecker@kpcmedia.com

ANGOLA — An Angola man who isn’t a military veteran said it’s easy as to why he organized a poker run for the American Legion Riders. Mike McAllister, Angola, organized the benefit that garnered $4,015 in September. He’s hoping to help military veterans and raise awareness to their plight. “I want to build this up big, ” he said, adding next year he plans to make the benefit bigger and better. “My dad, Jim McAllister, was a veteran and one of my two brothers, Tim McAllister. A lot of my buddies are veterans. I get to live a lifestyle and all of us get to live in a free country. I just believe there’s people out there who don’t realize it.” McAllister said veterans need help everyday of the year and it was his way to help. He’d like others to do the same. Angola American Legion Post 31 Riders Director James Roark III said it’s all in the name of helping veterans year round, not just at Veterans’, Memorial or Independence days. He said he was pleased McAllister held the benefit, as the needs by veterans are many. Roark said the public is misinformed

about the Riders. First of all, he said Riders aren’t a motorcycle club. Instead, they’re a family-oriented group of military veterans who love riding their motorcycles and performing good deeds, as an arm of the American Legion. “This is a 24/7 ordeal,” he said, adding issues such as with housing and health care are issues affecting many veterans. “We’re not selfish. We try to pay everything forward.” Roark said money McAllister raised will be used to benefit veterans, a cause that’s long been part of his family. A U.S. Army veteran, Roark calls himself “a hard-driven man” when it comes to helping other veterans. His father, Jim Roark, has been involved with Riders 10 years holding a variety of positions. In return, Roark said Riders help the community when possible. “Steuben County is a smaller community. We have a lot of veterans … People aren’t aware of everything. We do what we can and pay it forward,” he said. Roark said Riders always needs community support in different ways through donations, clothing, non-perishable food and health care supplies, such as

walkers or wheelchairs. “We go around to nursing homes where there’s World War II, Korean and Vietnam war veterans. Just because they’re in nursing homes they don’t need to be forgotten,” Roark said. Those veteran are usually given items they can use like clothing or socks. Roark said Riders all have brother- and sister-hoods. Posts work together and pool resources to touch as many people as possible. He said he’d like to think the good deeds Riders perform have a ripple effect in helping veterans and others. “I wish people would try to help out with the whole community … and to keep kids safe. Helping the community out gets people involved and aware,” he said. Roark said Rider membership is available with annual fees for motorcycle-riding military veterans. Riders in the area may found at American Legion Post 31, Angola, at 665-3363; American Legion Post 257, Fremont, at 495-9329; or American Legion Post 423, Orland, at 829-6544; American Legion Post 86, Kendallville, at 347-9978; and American Legion Post 201, Butler at 868-2260.


2016

kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

A12

Richard Wayne Wallace

Don Underwood

Dean Parson

Post 243 misses him.

Served in the Army. Post 243 is proud of his service.

Served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. Post 243.

Butch Ritter

Jack L. Lord We lost Jack L. Lord last year. Post 243 misses him.

is a new Veteran of whom Post 243 is proud.

Served in the army in Vietnam and Thailand and is a Post 243 member

Nathen Denton

Served in the U.S. Navy during Desert Storm. He is one of Post 243’s younger members.

Dennis Graff U.S. Army

Served in the U.S. Army from 1963 to 1983 retiring with the rank of MSGT. Post 243 retains his memory in our archives.

Josh Coyle

Jack Roher

served with the 82nd Airborne in Vietnam in 1967. A Post 243 member.

Doc Stone

Served in Korea with the U.S. Navy. A Post 243 favorite who just returned from the April 17th 2016 Honor Flight.

Arthur Vern Kistler

served in the U.S. Army in WW2. He was a Postmaster and Post 243 member.

Glen Magnus

is also David Magnus’s son. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan. He is also a Post 243 member.


2016

©KPC Media Group Inc. • kpcnews.com

We Salute Our Veterans

A13

Honoring our Heroes.

Your Community Counseling Center • Individual Counseling • Family Counseling • Group Counseling • Geriatic Services • Consultation & Education • Inpatient Mental Health Services • Drug & Alcohol Counseling • Child & Adolescent Counseling DeKalb Outpatient LaGrange Outpatient Noble-Albion Outpatient Noble-Kendallville Outpatient Steuben Outpatient Inpatient Services 833 E Main St. 19305 Dowling Street 1800 Wesley Road 2155 N St. Rd. 9 3265 Intertech Drive 1850 Wesley Road Albion Kendallville Auburn LaGrange Angola Auburn 260-636-6975 260-347-4400 260-925-2453 260-463-7144 260-665-9494 260-927-0726

ProvidingNortheastern Indiana with urgent mental health care 24 hours a day.

Mental health care solutions for you

1-800-790-0118

EMERGENCY SOLUTIONS

We salute the heroes

past and present

who have made great sacrifice to protect our families, our country and our freedom. We are proud supporters of the Honor Flight Network.

Please help us support our local vets by dropping off notes of gratitude and encouragement at your REMC office.


A14

kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

Veterans Day facts and figures

METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

Veterans Day, once known as Armistice Day, was first celebrated on November 11, 1919, the anniversary of the end of World War I. In 1928, the United States Congress passed a resolution for Armistice Day to be an annual observation, and by 1938, the day became a national holiday. Differing from Memorial Day in May, Armistice Day, which would be renamed Veterans Day in 1954 under President Dwight Eisenhower, pays tribute to veterans who survived various wars. Memorial Day commemorates those veterans who lost their lives. Americans celebrate Veterans Day, while residents of Great Britain, Canada and Australia celebrate Remembrance Day. Those who want to learn more

about Veterans Day can consider the following facts. • According to the American Community Survey, there were 19.3 million military veterans in the United States in 2014. Of those, 1.6 million were female. • California, Texas and Florida comprise the states with the largest number of veterans, equalling one million or more. • Veterans consist of people who served in the military. This includes the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard. Veterans serve in times of war and peace. • The word “veteran” comes from the Old English language and means “old, experienced soldier.” The first use of the word was documented in 1789.

• Although many veterans are working, and the average annual income of male veterans is $37,000, some veterans continue to be unemployed. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall unemployment rate for veterans rose to 7.6 percent in January 2013. The unemployment rate of post-9/11 veterans or those who participated in the Gulf War reached 6.2 percent. • Upon retiring or being discharged, veterans may need help acclimating to life outside the military. The Department of Veterans Affairs says about 30 percent of Vietnam War veterans have been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. • Between 1971 and 1977, Veterans Day was celebrated on the fourth

2016

Monday in October. It was changed back to its original date, November 11, in 1975 when President Gerald Ford signed bill S.331 into law. The change went into effect beginning in 1978. • An American soldier was buried at the national cemetery in Arlington on November 11, 1921. His identity was unknown, and the gravesite is known as the “Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.” A guard from the Society of the Honor Guard stands watch over the grave each year on Veterans Day, and the president or another high-ranking member of the government places a wreath on the grave. Veterans Day occurs each year on November 11, marking the end of World War I. The day has evolved into a celebration and remembrance of the heroism of America’s brave soldiers.

Furnace giving you the cold shoulder? Need a repairman?

YOUR SEARCH IS OVER!

WE’VE GOT IT! ONLY AT


2016

©KPC Media Group Inc. • kpcnews.com

Thank You veterans for your service and your sacrifices

A15

A Proud Supporter of Veterans A Proud Employer of Veterans Thank you for your service! Veteran Employees: Bud Botset Cary Davis Scott Fortress Terry Harr Devon Hizer Gary Holtz John Houlihan Derrick Martin Kenny Rangel Ed Rogusta Jesse Roscoe Doug Weisgerber Luke Womack Russell Womack, Jr.

American Legion Post 202 118 N. Broadway • Butler, IN

(260) 868-2260

810 S. Broadway • Butler, IN

868-2320

Cameron Woods thanks

our very own Veterans and all our area Veterans. 701 W. Harcourt Rd., Angola, IN

www.cameronwoods.net JOHN GRAHAM

JAMES KNAPP

DEAN SUTTON

Marine, Vietnam

Army, World War II

Army, Korean War

EVIE KLINK

PAUL OAKES

DON ZARTMAN

Navy, Korean War

Army, Korean War

Army, Korean War


2016

kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

A16

Ben Blackshire

served in the Navy. He is remembered by Post 243.

Emil Mullins Served in WW2. Post 243 Misses him.

Larry “Red Eye” Reed He is missed by Post 243.

Charles E. Blackshire U.S. Army

served in the U.S. Army. Post 243 is keeping his memory alive.

Burt Green

served in the U.S. Army Reserve during the Vietnam Era. He is a very active member of Post 243.

Raven Hicks

served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He is a very active member of Post 243.

James V. Anderson Father, PFC

Father served in WW2, American Legion Post 243 Member

Fred Vsetula

U.S. Army, Uncle of Becky Vsetula, Post 243. Served in the European Theater during WWII.

Cyrus Paulus

A Navy Veteran during the Vietnam War. Post 243.

James G. Anderson, Son Served in Vietnam Retired USAF MSGT Post 243’s Finance Officer

Yehuda Jacob Barch

served in the U.S. Army in Okinawa in 1953. His flag is on display at Post 243.

Robert Dodge A very active veteran and Uncle to Post 243’s Finance Officer


2016

Steuben County Veteran Service Officer Alex Dobson 317 S. Wayne St., 2-B Angola, IN 46703 (260) 668-1000 Ext. 1060

©KPC Media Group Inc. • kpcnews.com

A17

Thank you to all of our veterans and troops for the sacrifices you have made for our freedom.

NOBLE COUNTY DISPOSAL Residential & Commercial 3, 4 & 6 Yard Clean-up Containers Electronic & Fluorescent Drop Off Location

www.NCDisposal.com StCoVeteransAffairs_55305 1/4 sq Veterans Day 11-11-16

#43 mw ek 4color

800-292-9098

Supporting All Veterans The public is invited to these events:

Texas Hold’ Em Wednesdays at 6 p.m. Dinners Every Friday at 5 p.m. Saturday Bingo at 2 p.m. WEST NOBLE AMERICAN LEGION POST 243

100 S. Main St., Ligonier corner of Main & Lincolnway

260-894-3430 License #120053


2016

kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

A18

Duane Trowbridge

Served in Saigon, Vietnam, in 1967. Post 243.

Benny Laza

Cousin of Becky Vsetula, Post 243. Served in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a Ball turret gunner in WWII.

Tom DeBuler

is a veteran who helped Post 243’s Color Guard as long as he could.

Pete Green

Tom Sprague

served in the U.S. Army in Germany 1965-1966. He was Post 243’s Commander 7 times.

Served in Vietnam with the Army. He is a current member of Post 243.

Fred Ott

Phil Patrick Vietnam Veteran

Was a POW in WW2. Post 243 misses him.

John Lutton

served in the Navy and was Post 243’s Chaplain for many years.

Also the most decorated soldier from Noble County. Post 243 is proud to have known him. Rest in peace Phil.

Owen Snyder

An Army Veteran who was a Post 243 member for many years.

Burl Lepird

(on the left) was in the Navy stationed at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. He willed much of his estate to West Noble American Legion Post 243. We are thankful to him every day.

William Hobart Duesler

Served in WWI with his brother and Post 243 is sure proud of their service.

Bob Miller

served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and is a member of Post 243.


2016

©KPC Media Group Inc. • kpcnews.com

shopin.direct Shop Online...Earn Cash Back

YOUR ONLINE SHOPPING MALL. Download the FREE app today for a chance to win a $50 gift card!

A19


2016

kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

A20

Carl S. Wheeler

served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1909-1912. His son is a member of Post 243.

Brad Patrick

Carl Wheeler is an Air Force Veteran

who served in the 1950’s. He is Post 243’s current Adjutant.

Jerry Goodrich

Served in the Army. He is the brother of Phil Patrick, the most decorated soldier in the county. A Post 243 favorite.

Was in the U.S. Army from 1964-1967, with a tour in Vietnam. Post 243 is proud of him.

John Morrow

William Lee Lang, Jr.

served with the Army. He is Percy Morrow’s nephew. Percy is Post 243’s Santa.

Served in the Army from 1957 to 1960. Post 243.

Bob Vance

was a WW2 Veteran whom Post 243 misses very much.

Larry Wolf

Served in the Army after high school. He played many sports in school. Post 243.

Tommy Magers

served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He helps Post 243 in our Honor Guard Burial details.

Sanford Hooley

Served in the Army in 1958. Another Veteran Post 243 is proud to know.

Chuck Shoudel

was originally a Ligonier boy who served twenty years and is still a member of Post 243.

Jesse Sellers

is related to Sue Kennard, a very active Post 243 supporter.


2016

©KPC Media Group Inc. • kpcnews.com

Little Caesars provides delicious pizza for one and all!

November 11, 2016 Exclusive Offer

A21

H.E. Johnson & Sons

F H  C S (Since 1914)

Pays Tribute To Those Who Have Served Our Country and To Those That Still Serve

November 11th from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. any and all veterans who come and show Military I.D. in Angola will receive a free lunch combo and 20 oz. beverage of their choice. This is only on Veterans Day and they must show military I.D. Thank you.

665-9213 Open Daily at 10:30 AM

ANGOLA

610 North Wayne St.

Angola• 260-665-2211 • Butler • 260-868-2127 108 S. West St., Angola, IN • 212 N. Broadway, Butler, IN www.hejohnsonfh.com

Join Families for Freedom

Supporting the Troops

of Noble and Lagrange Counties Your family or organization can “ADOPT A SOLDIER” for the holidays There is no place like home for the holidays, but many of our local troops cannot be with family during this special time. Families for Freedom, sends a gift to almost 100 active troops throughout the year. If you would like to help, a donation of $50.00 adopts a soldier for the holidays, and $100 adopts them for a year.

Donations can be sent to: Families for Freedom c/o Sara Fisher 1421 N. Lima Rd., Kendallville, IN 46755 or call for more info: Sara - 347-4075 • Leann - 318-1638

“Thanks to All our Vets for their Service”

Post 2749 We appreciate your sacrifice and are here to serve you!

127 Veterans Way, Kendallville

(260) 347-3550


2016

kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

A22

Dick Baker

Served in the Korean War and helped the Honor Guard at Post 243 as long as he could. We miss him.

Forrest Rosenogle

Served in the U.S. Navy. A great veteran of whom Post 243 is proud.

Richard Vsetula

cousin of Becky Vsetula, Post 243. Served in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne.

Bill and Dot Foster

Bill was a Gunners Mate on the U.S.S. Hammon from July 1942 ‘til October 1945. Post 243 favorites.

James M. Wyatt

Served in the U.S. Army in 1975. We lost him too early to cancer. His wife is a Post 243 volunteer.

John Goffery

was killed in Vietnam in 1966. Post 243 is keeping his memory alive. Freedom is not free.

Freddy Garza Marines

(pictured with his wife Paula) He served in the Marines and is a past commander of Post 243.

James R. Wyatt

Is James’ son. He served with the Army in Iraq. He is an active member of Post 243.

Kenny Green

Served in the Navy during WW2. Post 243 is proud of Kenny.

Dr. Floyd Warren

Served in the U.S. Army and Reserve, retiring as Lt. Col. He was a veterinarian and a local historian. He has been a member of Post 243 for over 50 years.

Cecil Phares

Served in WWI. He was one of Post 243’s Founders.

Leone Green

(Kenny’s wife) Served with the WACs in WW2. Post 243 is proud of Kenny’s wife.


DeKalbCoAging_55993 1/4 pg sq tab Veterans Day: 11/11/16

2016

©KPC Media Group Inc. • kpcnews.com

A23

American Made

AMERICAN PROUD

Inspired packaging. A world of difference

Kendallville, Indiana 260-347-7612

DeKalb County Council on Aging Heimach Center DART Transportation 260-925-3311 1800 E 7th St., Auburn, IN 46706 #15 Jonathan sz/jg pdf

Thank You Veterans For Your Service!

THANK YOU VETERANS Veterans Day - November 11

Kendallville

Garrett

Hardware 882 N. Lima Rd. Kendallville (260) 347-1483

206 S. Randolph St. Garrett (260) 357-4101

• TIRES • ALIGNMENTS • BRAKES • OIL CHANGES

(260) 894-4707

• SUSPENSION • STRUTS • SHOCKS • AND MORE

808 NORTH CAVIN ST., LIGONIER


2016

kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

A24

We Salute Our Veterans!

Joe Hysong, General Manager

Blaine Snyder, USMC

Cody Taylor

Tyler Travis

Dan Serban

Brian Boyer

Greg Ziegler

Lukas Estes

Brad Fuller

HAPPY VETERANS DAY HONORING ALL WHO SERVED

Join us as we celebrate each and every day by honoring those who have given the biggest sacrifice they can…by serving our country.

Thank A Veteran Today! GM SUPPORTS THE MILITARY DURING AND AFTER YOUR SERVICE.

For over 100 years GM has been a passionate advocate for the US Military by offering a variety of programs and sponsorships, many of which are designed to help ease the transition back into civilian life. Ask about our

These include: • Achilles Freedom Team • Military Times Service Members of the Year • GM Careers • GM Technical College • GM Automotive Service Educational Program • GM Shifting Gears • Hiring our Heroes • 100,000 Jobs Mission Coalition • Cell Phones for Soldiers

Jim Hackett

Tony Bone

Josh Ankney, USN

GM is proud to be recognized as a 2015 BEST FOR VETS EMPLOYER

Rick Piatt

Calvin Smith

Trent Bard

824 N. Wayne St., Angola, IN 46703

866.868.4367 Kevin Krauskopf

Aleesha Brallier

Dominic Tripoli

Sam Crover


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
A Salute to the Troops Veterans Day 2016 by KPC Media Group - Issuu