GENEVA — First there was gunfire — shockingly loud blasts from rifles held by men who handled weapons for all Americans.
Then, as the empty shell casings hit the concrete sidewalk, there was the gentle applause of children from across the street — children who applauded the Veteran’s Day ceremony, the gunfire, and the men who served.
Members of Geneva American Legion George Call Post 124, the service color guard, and fellow veterans gathered Wednesday afternoon at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month to salute the flag, hear Taps from a bugle and share their stories of war.
Don Branford, veteran of World War II, Korean War and
Vietnam War, said his days in the service are always on his mind.
“Veteran’s Day comes with mixed emotions,” he said. “You always miss the ones who couldn’t come home. The memories of war are with us 24/7.”
Branford said the American Legion is seeking to befriend and help newer veterans of both Gulf Wars.
“We are seeking them more than they are seeking us at this point,” he said. “When you come home, well, war is very traumatic and when they get home they want to have their solitude and maybe forget for a little while.”
Branford said sooner or later, the memories become something a serviceman or servicewoman needs to share with people who understand.
“We have a lot in common with new veterans,” Branford said. “Regardless of age, we have the same experiences.”
The sun in his face, Ken Johnson looked up at the American flag Wednesday and gave a salute.
A Gulf War veteran and Navy Seabee, Johnson, 43, celebrated his birthday and Veteran’s Day with the members of the George Call Post and picked up a membership application.
“I want to join to make sure we get the word out about veterans and the service they gave to this country and the experiences they face back in the states,” he said. “People should respect what soldiers do for our country every day.”
Johnson said he was inspired to join the American Legion through his experiences with the veteran’s hospital in Brecksville.
“The camaraderie of service is something I can’t explain,” he said. “I’m not sure it can be put into words. I am in a different age bracket than most of these men, but I feel like they are already my best friends. They know where I am coming from. They understand what I have seen and experienced.”
Branford said veterans looking to join the American Legion can call (440) 862-5348 or (440) 466-5197.
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