Soldiers from the National Training Center and Fort Irwin traveled within the High Desert and beyond to support events during the celebration of Veterans Day, Sunday.
Chief of Staff for the NTC, Col. Richard Wilson, made an appearance at Mountain View Cemetery and the State Veterans Home in Barstow. The annual event at Mountain View Cemetery has been attended by leadership of the NTC and Fort Irwin for many years. This year also saw the attendance of a bugler, color guard and firing squad, composed of Soldiers from this military installation. At the cemetery, Wilson spoke to an audience of community members and local Veterans, many who represent various Veterans Service Organizations. Wilson talked about the bravery and devotion of Veterans.
“We are here to celebrate the strength, courage and dedication of our Veterans who not only wield the hammer of conflict but also shape the world for lasting peace,” Wilson said. “The brave actions of our Veterans endure in the pages of history. Today, I want us to not only remember their gallantry on the battlefield; we must look at the lasting legacy of strength they bring to our communities after their years of selfless service here in the U.S. or in another nation.”
At the Veterans Home, Wilson mentioned the names of Veterans who served in conflicts 60 years ago or more.
“The Barstow Veterans Home is filled with Veterans who deserve our lifelong gratitude for honorable service rendered and gallantry in the face of our nation’s foes,” Wilson said. “Our World War II Veterans, who were a part of America’s “greatest generation”: Mr. Frank Wales, Mr. Elijah Woods, Mr. Donald Gantenbein and Mr. Richard Livingston. Thank you gentlemen for your service. Purple Heart recipients like Mr. Bill Carlton returned injured from the Korean War, but will forever be remembered as a hero.”
Leadership and Soldiers from various units, here, also attended events at Palm Springs, Chiriaco Summit, Hemet and Porterville.
