'There are ideals worth sacrificing for'

Patriotism and gratitude were bursting from the gym at Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn High School last Friday.

Students, staff and community members gathered to pay homage to America's bravest during the school's annual Veterans Day program. Featured were musical tributes from both high school and elementary students, as well as remarks from keynote speaker Rev. Jordan Helming.

For Hartley American Legion Cmdr. Roy Wohlert, the celebration of service was one of his favorite days of the year.

"I'm like you kids on Christmas. Not because I want to pat myself on the back, but because I'm so appreciative that you put on this program," he said. "I don't know if this is done all over the United States, but it's done here and that's important. It's nice to be recognized and veterans deserve to be recognized."

Helming's address outlined how America's veterans are great team members who've learned to overcome adversity and bear other peoples' burdens throughout their lives, all for the cause of freedom.

"Some veterans have been to the harshest countries in the world, and when they've experienced those conditions they become very grateful for the abundant blessings here," he said. "They are thankful to be Americans."

Helming noted the sacrifices made by veterans are often unthinkable to many Americans. Not only have they missed birthdays, anniversaries and their children's first steps, but many also paid the ultimate sacrifice during their service.

"I've missed quite a few things, but the causes our soldiers fight for are important enough to make those sacrifices," he said. "Whether a volunteer or drafted, a veteran can look back and think, 'If not me, then who? If I didn't do this, then someone else would have had to.' It's a huge responsibility to take on, especially when that cost can be so, so high."

While the trials and tribulations veterans face may last well beyond their years of active service, Helming said Americans should always be thankful for the brave men and women who protect their freedoms.

"Veterans see the bigger picture and see that there are ideals worth sacrificing for," he said. "Freedom and security are worth fighting for."