One day we will be that passionate and will be in the same group as these veterans. Some veterans lingered in the back of the auditorium listening to the words of the speakers, their eyes watering as fellow veterans were recalled and honored. The colors ceremony annually retires an old American flag with a new one. The service also raised flags signifying prisoners of war and soldiers missing in action. Joe Rodriguez, a keynote speaker who was an infantryman in the Marine Corps during World War II, said his fallen comrades were the men who brought us freedom.
People think of the Constitution when they think of freedom.
Just go to any military graveyard and see the thousands and thousands of white crosses. That is what America paid for its freedom. Nalepa said hard work and the pride of veterans has increased her opportunities as a Naval ROTC cadet. John Kinzinger, the second keynote speaker, served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. They are the first to put their hands over their heart when 'The Star Spangled Banner' plays at sports events.