The Yakima (Wash.) Church held a special service on Sabbath, Nov. 8, 2008, to honor veterans.
Months prior, Beverly Campbell, who had done a similar program in another church, began planning a service to honor veterans. She invited those in the congregation and other relatives, neighbors and friends to attend and participate.
The service featured patriotic music, including the National Anthem, the Pathfinder color guard and a spiritual message by Harry Sharley, pastor. As each veteran's name was read, he or she came to the front to receive a letter signed by former President Bush thanking them for their service to their country. In addition, they got a special frame containing their photo which had been used in a Power Point presentation by Carl Cottrell. By the time all the names were read, there were 48 veterans (many of them non-members) and family members representing loved ones in active service standing in front.
The service concluded with Rick Sloop, playing taps in memory of those who did not return. All veterans and families were invited to a special dinner following the service. Plans are underway for another program in two years.
Each veteran was given a framed photo. Bill Hinman is pictured here.
Jay Sloop interviews veterans Mel Atwood, Elmer Hart, Don Fletcher and Pat Frey.
Pastor Sharley shakes hands with Gerald Case, father of Gaylord and Rick Case, members.
The men's choir sings "This Is My Country" for the veterans program. Veterans third from left: Bill Robinson; fifth from left: Ron Jennings; sixth from left: Mel Atwood.
More than 45 veterans and family members representing those in active service are honored at the Yakima Church special service.
