13th Annual Veterans Harshaw WI Memorial Ceremony Pays Tribute 2011

May 30, 2011 - PRLog -- A thunderous procession of over 65 motorcycle veterans lead by first year participant, Ultimate Sacrifice, USA, Inc., out of Conover, WI. with a motorcycle procession lead by Wayne Staszak and Red Ingman, nephew of the congressional medal of honor recepient; Einar Ingman II, entered the grounds to join the armed forces; American Legion Post 93 - Tomahawk, Army, Navy, Airforce, Marine and Merchant Marine led by Bag Piper; Les Steffen to greet the awaiting crowds in anticipation of the event ahead.

The flags flew proudly over the ceremony grounds, as the master of ceremony, Richard Smith of Tomahawk proceeded to announce the tributes and honors to all of those that sacrificed their lives in honor of their country, to remember and never forget that, All Gave Some and Some Gave All.

The passing of Dewey Smith on Veterans Day in 1997 was the starting point for the Veteran Memorial, who is buried next to his wife Juanita Smith, also a veteran. The first ceremony in 1998 was a humble appreciation to honor a veteran and father along with fellow men buried at the cemetery, that seemed to have been forgotten. By 2002 a dedication ceremony opened to a completed monument, and it has continued to grow ever since with crowds in the hundreds, who continue to make their way to join in this very special ceremony.

For a first time visitor, this is just more than a ceremony and tribute, it is an education into the Armed Forces, respect, tributes, dedication and appreciation to those that have sacrificed in making America a free country. Armed Force representatives took stage, with presentations made by Sgt. 1st Class, Craig Lau - Army and Colonel Mark Michie - WI Army National Guard.

This year a special tribute, lead by veteran, Wayne Staszak, Harshaw, WI, presented the Gold Star Mom's, Joline Adams of Rhinelander, WI, Tracy Jopek and Karen Goulee of Merrill, WI, for their recent loss of their sons with plaques and flowers were gently placed into the empty arms by the Trillium Trio songbirds.

The POW/MIA Remembrance Service was presented by the Rolling Thunder, Chapter 4 and many learned what the meaning of "Remember". The 951st Sappers Company and the Green Bay Marine Reserves provided the rifle salutes and "Taps" with the return of the The 8th battery of WI Veterans Light Artillery, in original full dress, providing the cannon salute; as they have for the past 9 years.

At the podium, Veteran, John Pauke, paid a very emotional and heartfelt tribute to the most recent veteran, Myron Griffin (Nick), father-in law and friend, laid to rest just weeks prior to the ceremony.

A Helicopter salute by Skyline Helicopter circled the ceremony grounds and stood fast as past veterans were honored. Newcomers to the event; The Ultimate Sacrifice owners, Bob and Meg Cankar, who journey states spreading the word in their vintage 1941 Chevy, telling the story of our fallen heroes, also performed on stage to the amazement of the audience. Artist, Charles Hamilton, Irma, WI, shared in the tribute with three of his one of a kind military art sculptures and drew many compliments and comments from visitors. We welcome you back next year.

To say this was just a Memorial Ceremony is a mere understatement. This was a "remembrance, tribute and appreciation", to communicate the importance of our veterans in our Armed Forces, both deceased and alive today. Unlike most ceremonies, this extended beyond just speeches. Pride was expressed by the Military's presence, musician participation, displays, and the numerous presentors and hosts who all shared in one thought, "Respect and Remember".

For all the hands extended, and the tears and emotions joined in sharing and hosting this ceremony, a very special appreciation is extended to the numerous sponsors and volunteers who participated in volunteering their tireless and continuous support; Pastor Hans Juegen Heisinger, Poet; Carolyn Fogg, Musicans; Gary Briar and the Trillium, vocal trio; Cindy Cyra, Patty Buchler and Cindy Scrobell, accompanied by, Joyce Barnes, and Mary Broomell; Photographer; Sue Bluhm, Men of Honor, Sgt. Bridgette, Army, Sgt. Hanse, Air Force, Marines, (Bravo Company) , the Harshaw Womens Auxillary, and the many family and friends who share in the purpose, respect and belief of "All Gave Some/Some Gave All".

The Union Grove Cemetery Veterans Memorial is the 9th Veteran's Memorial, recognized by the State in Northern WI and holds the Memorial Day Ceremony every Saturday, before Memorial Day at the Union Grove Cemetery located in Cassian Township, Harshaw, WI. Located in Oneida county.

Donations and participation is always welcome. Contact Richard Smith, Harshaw WI at 8848 County Road N, Tomahawk, WI for ceremony information and details.

Visit:  Ultimate Sacrifice, USA, Inc. at www.ultimatesacrificeusa.org, and Charles - Metal Art Sculpture at http://fineartamerica.com/featured/1-charles-fort-hamilto....