Rock Island Arsenal, Ill. -- Brig. Gen. Richard B. Dix, commander, Joint Munitions Command, honored and recognized the service and sacrifices of our Nation's Veterans during two observances in the Quad Cities area community.
On November 11, Brig. Gen. Dix served as the Veterans' Day keynote speaker at the American Legion Post 227 Hall in East Moline, Illinois.
"I've been told that this American Legion Post was chartered in 1920, and I'm humbled to know that it's been devoted to veterans for almost 100 years," said Dix. "This post has honored not only the more than 65 East Moline service members killed in action, but supported hundreds and hundreds of citizens of East Moline who have returned home from war."
"Today, here in East Moline and all across our country -- in town halls, city squares, parades and American Legion Posts, such as this one -- we celebrate and honor America's Veterans for their devotion, patriotism and selfless service and sacrifice on behalf of us all," Dix added.
Dix spoke of how Veterans' Day has evolved over generations and over the course of our Nation's wars. He believes Veterans' Day has become less quiet and more grand -- part reflection and part celebration. "Veterans' Day is a tribute and reflection, but perhaps most importantly, a day of celebration. It is a triumph of all those who served, and are serving, to keep us free."
The East Moline ceremony included a Call to Order and the Pledge of Allegiance from Bob Baecke, Post 227 Adjutant. East Moline Mayor John Thodos welcomed and introduced Dix and the post color guard provided a rifle salute. In addition, United Township High School student, Alex Vershoore, performed the National Anthem, Taps and 'God Bless America' on his trumpet.
In addition to speaking at the Veterans' Day Ceremony, Dix took time to recognize Aaron Reeves, a senior at United Township High School, who recently obtained the rank of Eagle Scout. Reeves has been active with many local Veterans' causes and has a goal to serve in the military.
Immediately following the ceremony, approximately 19 Vietnam Veterans were recognized for their service as part of the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War. Through the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, Dix presented lapel pins and certificates of appreciation to those Veterans in attendance.
On November 12, Dix served as the keynote speaker at the Veterans' Day Ceremony at the Hero Street Monument, Silvis, Illinois.
Dix spoke of Veterans and how his childhood street in Atlanta, Georgia, is similar to Hero Street in Silvis. In both places many residents have served their country proudly.
In May 1967, the former Mayor of Silvis, William Tatmen, renamed Second Street, Hero Street, from which eight residents died while serving their country. To date, more than 100 men and women from Hero Street have served in the United States Armed Forces. Six were killed in action during WWII and two during the Korean War. Hero Street's recently completed bronze and granite monument serves as a tribute to all Veterans.
Again, immediately following the ceremony, Dix recognized Vietnam Veterans in attendance with lapel pins and certificates as part of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War Commemoration.
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