Strasburg American Legion honors veterans

The Charles Hofer Post of the Strasburg American Legion held its annual Veterans Day Banquet Nov. 8 at Dutch Valley Restaurant, honoring veterans and recognizing this year’s Buckeye Girls State delegates.

Post Commander Don Gerber opened the evening with a welcome, prayer and benediction. He also read a poem honoring veterans. Chaplain Marvin Simmons conducted the POW/MIA remembrance ceremony, placing a black covering on an empty chair in memory of soldiers who were prisoners of war or remain missing in action. He later removed the covering at the close of the banquet.

Larry Miller, adjutant, introduced Buckeye Girls State delegates Kylie McKenzie and Violet Thomas. McKenzie is the daughter of Josh and Missy McKenzie, and Thomas is the daughter of Josh and Nancy Thomas. There were no Boys State delegates this year.

Both delegates shared how the weeklong leadership and government program made a lasting impact.

“It was one of the most unforgettable and meaningful experiences I’ve ever had,” McKenzie said. “I was elected prosecuting attorney for my county, which got me out of my comfort zone but also showed me what I was capable of. I didn’t just learn about the justice system — I learned about myself.”

She added that the friendships and confidence she gained will stay with her for life. “Buckeye Girls State gave me the confidence, leadership skills and a deeper appreciation of how government works,” McKenzie said. “It also gave me friendships, memories and lessons that will stay with me for life.”

Thomas also expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “One of the slogans they repeated to us was ‘A week to change a lifetime,’” she said. “I found this to be true. I made so many memories, met interesting people and made great friends. I learned what it’s like to run a government and campaign for a position.”

Thomas served as a city public defender, working closely with a judge, prosecutor and highway patrol officers. “I had so much fun throughout the week that leaving was hard,” she said. “Thank you to the American Legion for allowing me to attend.”

Gerber closed the program by thanking all volunteers who helped with the Legion’s annual chicken barbecue. He recognized Mark and Brad Malcuit for allowing the Legion to use their business parking lot, Village Garden Bulk Food Store for supplying the chicken, the Tiger Marching Band, Bev Schatzel for making wreaths at the cemetery entrance, and Boy Scout advisors Michele Randolph and Jim Hill and their scouts for placing U.S. flags along Bodmer Avenue and at Grandview Cemetery for Memorial Day.