To the Editor:

This Veterans Day, I, along with my son, an Iraq War veteran, and grandson, celebrated our best Veterans Day ever! Secure in the knowledge we finally have a real Commander-in-Chief, one who will support veterans and active duty military personnel, we were honored for our service by the real people of America.

The students, teachers, and staff of Dover Elementary School in Westlake held a Veterans Day salute for all veterans. They sang the songs of all the military services, God Bless America and our national anthem; and recited the Pledge of Allegiance with us. These beautiful children – of all races and ethnic groups – read poems and made posters for us.

Coffee, juice and donuts were served as well. Videos were shown by the staff of Dover Elementary, celebrating America’s veterans and our contributions in keeping the peace.

We can’t say thank you enough to Principal Timothy Barrett, the staff and students of Dover Elementary for their kindness and hard work that made our Veterans Day so special.

On Nov. 12, St. John Neumann Catholic church and pastor Rev. Robert J. Kraig and staff, hosted a Veterans Day Salute, which began with the celebration of Mass and blessing of our veterans. Mayor Thomas Perciak also thanked us for keeping America safe. A reception followed, with a beautiful ice sculpture of the American Flag, fine food and music, a large congratulatory banner signed by many parishioners, and special place mats made for us by the children of the parish.

In all my years of military service, and the intervening years since, never was I so moved, or so proud of my fellow countrymen. These Americans – young and old – went out of their way to recognize our service to God and country. You may not see them on TV, or in the newspaper, but they will forever be in our hearts!

Navyman Norm Beznoska Jr.

Strongsville