PORT TOWNSEND — With a diminishing number of World War II veterans still alive, it has become more important to thank them for their service, a Veterans Day audience was told Tuesday.
“The Veterans Day ceremonies are pretty much the same as they were 25 years ago,” said Joe Carey, Port Townsend American Legion post commander, following a 45-minute commemorative celebration Tuesday.
“At that time, it wasn’t as special to be a World War II veteran, but each year, we lose more, so this is the time to recognize them.”
About 150 people attended the ceremony, fewer than in years past because of the weather, Carey said.
Seven of them were World War II veterans, meaning that the approximately 18 other local vets didn’t attend, Carey said.
“A lot of them can’t move on their own, so it’s a sacrifice for them to come in for this,” he said.
Two of that number, Bob Yarr and Gunnar Bersos, were singled out by guest speaker Jim Peavey, who runs the Puget Sound Honor Flight.
The organization, based in Grapeview, transports veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the monuments that were erected in their honor.
Bersos and Yarr were part of the organization’s maiden flight in September 2013.
The trips cost about $1,000 each and are funded by donations so they’re free to the veterans, Peavey said.
The organization is actively recruiting veterans to make the trip, with a priority for those who served in WWII.
“This was the most rewarding experience I had for several years,” Yarr said.
“Every World War II veteran should make the trip. It is well worth their while.”
Plans eventually are to transport those who served in the Korean, Vietnam and Mideast conflicts.
Any veteran with a life-threatening condition will go to the head of the line, Peavey said.
Tuesday’s ceremony was similar to those in years past, with a performance by the Port Townsend Summer Band plus Selena Espinoza singing the national anthem, a table ceremony for those missing in action and taps played by Rich Castellano.
Legionnaire of the Year honors went out to Glenn Davis and his wife, Nancy McDaniel, who both served as colonels in the Air Force.
For Carey, Tuesday’s ceremony was different this year because he is retiring as post commander after eight years.
“This is bittersweet for me because this is my last one,” he said. “I will miss all of you, although some people may be happy I’m gone.”
During his time as post commander, Carey has pushed hard for the American Legion, an effort he said has not endeared him to some people.
“Veterans Day represents the American public thanking all the veterans for helping us,” Carey said.
“Every war is different, but the sacrifice is the same.”
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Jefferson County Editor Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or cbermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
For more information about veterans’ trips to Washington, D.C., visit www.pugetsoundhonorflight.org or phone 253-303-1130.
