On May 23, 2015, FCP Veterans Post 1 had a special dedication ceremony in Carter, Wis. The dedication ceremony was for the “Keeper of the Fire” statue along with the veterans’ monument that sits behind it. This was also an observance of Memorial Day, a day to honor those men and woman who sacrificed all and never got to come home from battle.
Along with the dedication of the monuments, people remembered the late Mr. Louis Shepard a.k.a. Big-Z, a Vietnam Veteran and son of the late Louis Shepard and Ramona Daniels, and father to Lisa, Louis, Lorraine and Nick.
The dedication started with the veterans carrying in the staffs and flags with “Eagle Warrior” drum accompanying them. Once the first song was over, Billy Daniels Jr. said a prayer for all in attendance. Next was the welcome address by Clarence Daniels, Vietnam Veteran. Following his welcome, Jon Lanctin from Congressman Sean Duffy’s office spoke about the importance of this day (Memorial Day) and how these men and women gave their lives so that we can be where we are today.
Following Lanctin’s speech, everyone’s eyes were focused on the sky above. A flying formation appeared with a plane peeling off in the missing man formation as taps was heard playing in the distance. It was a very moving moment, and there certainly were a few tears evident in the crowd as the emotions of this day and this symbolic gesture touched those present. Once the flyover was complete, the Oneida Veterans Firing Squad proceeded with the firing of the rifles in a closing salute to those who gave their lives for our freedoms. Following the formal ceremonies, those present gathered in the conference center for a lunch. This was a great day to celebrate and remember those men and women who never got to come home from combat and to remember the sacrifice they made for their country and all who live here.
Message from Forest County Potawatomi Veterans Post 1
Post 1 would like to express its appreciation for all of the help and support we received from our family and friends.
A special thanks to Mr. Jon Lanctin from Congressman Sean Duffy’s office for his kind, strong, but tender words, and his outstanding playing of taps.
Thanks to Oneida Veterans Firing Squad and to the “Rosenbaum Field” for the flyover and missing man formation. Both groups were marvelous.
As for our delectable meal, it was extraordinary. Thanks Helen.
Thanks to maintenance for their countless ways of supporting us. We couldn’t have done everything without your help.
As always, it’s a thrill to see our Color Guard post our colors. Many thanks to those brave men and women who served.
Thank you to the Potawatomi Traveling Times for their generous and exhaustive work for us. In some circles they’re known as “The Dream Team”. Megwich.
Thanks to our fantastic children, grandchildren, and nephews, for their help. We are very proud of you and love you.
Last but not least, our Commander, Mr. Clarence Daniels, for his words. Megwich to our Drum group “Eagle Warrior”; many blessings to you.
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