Tribute to Veterans

Later this week is Veteran’s day and with privilege I dedicate this column to three veterans near and dear to me – Len, Billie, and my Dad. I thank god for them and all veterans like them without whom we wouldn’t have freedoms we’ve grown accustomed to. Freedoms we as Americans take for granted. As citizens of the United States, we have many freedoms people of other countries do not have. We have luxuries, both materialistic and untouchable, making our lives and our children's lives so very much better. We have the power to choose, to state our thoughts and ideas and to move freely within our own country. We have the right to protest, vote and purchase our own homes. We can protect our families and ourselves. However, these luxuries did not come without a price. Many U.S. Military men and women encountered some of the most gruesome battles, triumphing over some of the biggest nations to maintain the very freedoms we have today. As U.S. Soldiers, they left the soil of their own country to save the solid ground we walk on today, forever changing their lives and that of their families. Sadly, many soldiers paid for our freedom with their own lives. As U.S. Citizens, we all owe much gratitude to those who have fought for us and our country, because we treasure the peace and freedom we have. Slightly less than half of all Americans who ever served during wartime in our country’s history are alive today and nearly 80% of all of today’s veterans served during a war. The largest group of veterans fought in World War II. You might (or might not) be surprised to know that there are approximately 28,000 veterans in Niagara County according to the census. To commemorate Veteran’s Day, Lewiston Genealogy Librarian an author Michelle Kratts will present a special program on Friday, November 11th from 10:30 – 11:30am at The Dale Association, 33 Ontario Street, Lockport about Niagara County during World War II. Stories and photos will depict the home-front, rationing, and the contributions people in our county made to the war. Michelle’s recently published book will also be available.