Dear Editor,

Our thanks to you for your coverage of Veterans Day program at the Veterans Park, it was truly a magnificent day in many ways. First, we were blessed with near perfect weather, the new Effingham Community Orchestra did themselves proud with the program, and the crowd was great — what more could one ask for, except that it was all to pay tribute to our nation’s many veterans.

My friends, if you were not there, I’m sorry for you. This is such a meaningful holiday, it is important that citizens come together to show their appreciation. There was not a better place anywhere than the Veterans Park on Sunday afternoon to mark the day. I’m always impressed by the fact that the crowd does not immediately disperse, they visit with one another. And, on Sunday they were busy telling the orchestra members how much they had enjoyed the program.

We all must be proud of this group of musicians, who have come together to play for the community just because the love the music and enjoy playing with friends. Our congratulations to Andrea Huff, who has brought this group together, for their fine performance, and our thanks for adding yet another dimension in the area of the arts in Effingham County.

We must also add a word of thanks and tribute to our veterans. It is important that we remember their sacrifices. We owe our tribute to the families of those that paid with their life in these battles for freedom.

Mark your calendar now for next year on Memorial Day and Veterans Day when the special programs will be held at the park, it is important for citizens to participate and let the veterans know how much we appreciate them.

Ruth Lee
Veterans Park board chairperson