A large crowd of dignitaries braved the cold for the Veteran’s Day Parade in Manhattan, and many followed the parade with a special Veteran’s Day ceremony held at the Wareham in downtown Manhattan. Brigadier General Eric Wesley, who is serving as Acting Senior Commander of the First Infantry Division, was the keynote speaker, and spoke of the “hardy community” presence during the Tuesday festivities.
Wesley adds while The Big Red One has a rich history with the Manhattan area, dating back to 1917, that’s just part of the point, The Brigadier General told the crowd “It’s not just a historical legacy. The Division and the relationship with this community with Vets and people that love on our soldier is alive here and now as we’re on point for the nation.”Riley County Commission Chair Robert Boyd reminisced about his time of service in Vietnam as a 20 year old, describing the experience as an awakening. Boyd encouraged his fellow veterans and others present at the ceremony to honor our veterans and celebrate their service.Manhattan Mayor Wynn Butler also talked about the city’s support of veterans and the 22 memorials around town representing several conflicts.
Other dignitaries present, included city and county officials, state legislators, and veterans representing most of the military branches and several different conflicts. Local school children were also present and provided patriotic music, with essay and poster contest winners announced by the Flint Hills Volunteer Center. Scott Freeby concluded the ceremony with Taps.
