Muskegon Community College will celebrate the armed forces contributions of its students, staff, and alumni, along with those of the greater community, during its event-filled Veterans Day ceremony on Monday, Nov. 11, beginning at 2 p.m.
The MCC event, which is being organized by MCC and local veterans’ organizations, includes a 21-gun salute, a medley of military songs, and speeches by local veterans.
Ceremonies commence at the main entrance flagpole with the raising of the flag. The Muskegon High School Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) will serve as the Honor Guard. Al Fisk, commander of the Muskegon County Council of VFW and the master of ceremonies for the day’s events, will recite the Pledge of Allegiance. The Shoreline Barbershop Chorus will sing the National Anthem.
Participants will then proceed to MCC’s Bartels-Rode Gymnasium. Golf carts are available for those who are unable to walk the short distance to the nearby facility. Inside, MCC President Dale Nesbary will offer welcoming remarks. Sharon Sprowls, the Muskegon County Council of VFW chaplain, will give the invocation.
The list of speakers includes: Nancy Frye, a U.S. Air Force veteran and the MCC Board of Trustees secretary; George Hartman, a WWII veteran and former POW; and current MCC student Cpl. Jonathan Mendicelli, USMC.
The MCC Jaywalkers will sing a medley of patriotic songs, including the respective military branch anthems. A seven-member firing squad from the County Council of VFW will provide a 21-gun salute to honor America’s fallen heroes. Daniel Meyers and Mike Olejarczyk will play Taps. Flo Predko will perform “God Bless America.” Members of American Legion Posts #9 and #297 will retire the colors. Refreshments will be served in the gymnasium following the event.
Veterans Day Program at Causeway Memorial Park
Earlier on Veterans Day at Causeway Veterans Memorial Park, a commemorative program involving the Veterans of Foreign Wars begins at 11 a.m. George Hartman will deliver the keynote speech and the Reeths-Puffer Middle School band and the Shoreline Barbershop Chorus will provide the music.