Lt. Col. Samuel E. Hayes III was the guest speaker at Saturday’s commemoration of Veterans Day in Tyrone.
The event was held once again at the Tyrone American Legion and was a joint effort of the Tyrone VFW and the Legion.
The annual event included all the usual features such as the advancement of colors, the Pledge of Alliance, the National Anthem led by Bill Jones, the placing of the wreaths, the POW/MIA Table, the placing of the military caps on the table, the roll call of the deceased and the placing of poppies. Bill Jones also sang “American Trilogy” as a musical selection.
When Lt. Col. Hayes was introduced he took to the podium to offer some words to commemorate the event. In front of Lt. Col. Hayes were several men serving in the military who dressed in different garments to represent the various eras of the United States Armed Forces.
Lt. Col. Hayes is a Tyrone area native and was a graduate of Tyrone Area High in 1985. He is also a Penn State University graduate and earned a masters degree there in education.
His military career began in 1986. Since then he has had extensive military experience and service including service in Kosovo. He has also received various military honors. He is currently Lt. Commander of the 2nd Battalion of the 112th Infantry.
During his comments to the audience at the American Legion, Lt. Col. Hayes paid tribute to all veterans including those you died in service to their country.
“Today we recognize those members of our society who answered the call of their nation throughout its history,” said Hayes. “The veteran understands that if he or she does not serve who will. I would like to personally thank every veteran in this assembly, this community, our Commonwealth and our nation.”
Lt. Col. Hayes referred to those who served in World War II as “the real super heroes of the 20th century.” He also cited those who served in the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War as well as those who have served since then including those still involved in today’s military efforts.
“Their service is every bit as vital today as the veterans throughout our history,” said Lt. Col. Hayes. “They continue to provide safety and freedom that veterans have provided to our nation.”
In concluding his remarks, Lt. Col. Hayes “challenged” everyone to appreciate the service of veterans every day and not just on Veterans Day.
