Sidney Celebrates Veteran's Day with SHS Grad

Monday's bitter cold was warmed with the celebration and solemn recognition of the men and women who put on the uniform of military service.

Veterans Day is a holiday that started as the recognition of World War One ending, on the 11th hour, of the 11th day of the 11th month. It was originally Armistice Day.

It is an opportunity to honor our veterans," said Sidney High School Principal Chris Arent.

He said he remembers waiting for his brother to come home from Vietnam, and the time his father served.

He then addressed the veterans in the crowd.

"I know it can be difficult, but please believe you have a community, and a country who stands behind you."

Sidney Mayor Roger Gallaway said for as long as the United States has been a country, it has needed men who will volunteer their service. He talked about a man he met at a new company in Sidney, who made the choice of becoming a U.S. citizen, motivated by the freedoms he has here and the things many Americans take for granted such as running water. However, he also had to give up citizenship to his homeland.

"My greatest hope for all of you is you will answer the call to serve," Gallaway said.

Guest speaker of the day was Ret. Col. Lori Fritz. Col. Fritz was born in Council Bluffs, Iowa, but graduated from Sidney High School in 1981.

She has a 34-year career in nursing in addition to her 21 years in active duty and seven years in the reserves. She has earned numerous awards and decorations during in time in the Army Nurse Corps.

After a brief history of Veterans Day, noting that the U.S. has had numerous conflicts in the 100 years of the Day's history. She then said "Military life is not for everyone."

She listed many reasons why people enlist, from seeing the world to family patriotism.

"We've been at war with terrorism since 2001. That's longer than most of you have been alive," she said to the students.

She said one reason to join is to be part of something bigger than yourself. She outlined how upon enlisting in the Army, one of the first things to happen is recruits are stripped of their individuality. No more values based on the fastest car, most expensive clothes or their reputation at home. They are part of a team – the "Army of One."

She said every soldier, regardless of his or her job, sees things in conflict they will never forget.

"All veterans have stories. The most common are about their battle buddies," she said.

Sidney Regional Medical Center CEO Jason Petik also spoke, thanking everyone for attending, especially the veterans. He also challenged people to take the time to say thank-you.

Sen. Steve Erdman was also present for the ceremony.

"As we move forward, when you see someone wearing a jacket, a hat or a pin signifying service, say thank-you," Erdman said.

The program included the Posting and Retiring of Colors by the American Legion, DAV and VFW combine Color Guard.