Heartfelt Tributes to Veterans in Bitterroot
The "Bells of Peace" rang out in Hamilton at 11 a.m. on a cold, windy Thursday. At the same time, a small grouping of veterans marched along nearby Corvallis' Main Street in Corvallis American Legion Post 91's annual salute to Veterans Day. The route was lined with students from Corvallis elementary classes, all bundled up, holding signs and waving flags. The veterans, followed by a vintage U.S. Army jeep, walked south along the street, then changed directions and marched back north, resulting in cheers and chants from the kids along the way.
Another ceremony was held at 2 p.m. at the Ravalli County Museum on South 3rd in Hamilton. The first part of the presentation was outside, where wreaths were laid at the World War I doughboy statue. The museum staff had filled the lawn with flags, including a huge American flag at the bell tower.
Ravalli American Legion Post 47 and the museum staff organized the event, with Post 47 Commander Paul Rosenberg delivering a short address to the group outdoors. There was the singing of America The Beautiful, a 21-gun salute by the Bitterroot Marine Corps League Honor Guard and the playing of Taps, which completed the outdoor portion. Those attending then went inside the museum to the main display area, where there was more music and a special program from Post 47.
From Post 47 Commander Paul Roseberg's opening comments:
"Military service by its nature is temporary; the legacy of that service can benefit generations for centuries...Veterans Day will always have a deep personal significance to many members of the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, the Marine Corps League, veterans everywhere and our families. And so should it be for all of you."