Memorable experience
James W. "Jim" Geary
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Recently, my wife, Linda, and I traveled from our home in Upper Sandusky, Ohio to visit her parents, Bud and Pepper Folck of Toronto, Kan. In planning this particular trip we decided that the occasion might be a good opportunity to visit Emporia on Veterans Day. With that thought in mind, we contacted the Emporia Chamber of Commerce to request some background information and were pleasantly surprised with the abundance of useful material that arrived in the mail a few days later. After reviewing the various items, Bud (a WWII U.S. Navy veteran) and I (U.S. Army Vietnam veteran) thought it might be nice if we could participate in the parade in a more active way rather than simply watching the procession. Little did we realize that us out-of-towners would have the privilege of being able to actually march in the parade. We, along with our wives, also were invited to attend the very dignified ceremony at the All Veterans Memorial Park in Soden’s Grove where we witnessed the unveiling of the highway sign identifying Emporia as the “Founding City of Veterans Day”!
Throughout the entire day Linda, Pepper, Bud and I felt very welcomed in your wonderful city. Indeed, everyone we encountered was friendly, helpful and hospitable as evident from the ham and bean luncheon at the American Legion following the Soden Grove ceremony. Needless to say, we left Emporia full (no pun intended) of many fond memories. All Emporians we met that day were very gracious, but a special note of thanks is in order to the Chamber of Commerce staff for promptly sending information concerning the planned activities for Veterans Day week and for welcoming us so warmly when Linda and I first visited Emporia on Monday, Nov. 9. Also, we would be remiss if we did not also single out the many fine representatives and members of the various veteran organizations who went out of their way to make us feel at home. Beyond any doubt, all Emporia residents can be proud of the contributions that they have made over the years to recognizing the service of our Nation’s veterans. Hopefully, other veterans and their families from other Kansas communities, and for that matter, from across the nation, should consider visiting Emporia on Nov. 11 to participate in such a memorable Veterans Day experience. On behalf of Linda, Pepper and Bud, please accept our heartfelt thanks for sharing this special day with us.
James W. “Jim” Geary
Upper Sandusky, Ohio
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justthinkin (anonymous) says...
I'm so glad you enjoyed your experience. Thanks for your kind words. Good luck & good health in your future.
December 2, 2009 at 12:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )