O'FALLON, Mo. — Seventh graders in St. Charles County gave a unique and heartfelt tribute to veterans in their community at Assumption Parish of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church on Friday.
Communities nationwide are coming together this weekend to express gratitude and pay homage to the brave men and women who have served in the military.
During an 8 a.m. mass, students from Assumption Catholic School orchestrated a moving tribute by presenting St. Michael's medals and offering blessings to the veterans in attendance.
They marched in church holding posters with the names of different significant wars and led the people who fought the battles.
This thoughtful gesture aimed to honor and recognize those who have devoted their lives to defending freedom.
"My great-grandpa was in the war so I feel like it's even more special for me because I get to appreciate what it was like to have a veteran in my family," Noah Kleckner said.
Army soldier Phillip Heiss took the opportunity to share his experiences and shed light on what it truly means to be a veteran.
His words resonated with the audience, providing insight into the challenges and triumphs that come with serving in the military.
The poignant moment was particularly special for one World War II veteran, soon to celebrate his 100th birthday, who was among the attendees.
One of the distinguished guests at the event was Marine Corps Sgt. Rodney "Rocky" Sickmann, a local Missouri hero.
Sickmann is renowned for his courage and resilience during the Iran Hostage Crisis in 1979 when he was one of 65 Americans held captive for 444 days.
His presence added a profound layer to the ceremony, reminding everyone of the sacrifices made by veterans throughout history.
Sickmann expressed his appreciation for the values instilled by the church and school.
"My parents taught me three things: love of faith, love of country, and you know it's neat to come here to Ascension Parish this morning and watch the school and the church really instill that," he said.
His words echoed the sentiment felt by many in the community, emphasizing the importance of instilling these values in younger generations.
Here are other events happening in St. Charles County this weekend:
O'Fallon, MO Events:
Veterans Day Ceremony:
- Date and Time: Saturday, November 11th, 2023, at 11 a.m.
- Location: O'Fallon's Veterans Memorial Walk, 800 Belleau Creek Road, O'Fallon, MO 63366.
- Details: Mayor Bill Hennessy will provide welcoming remarks, and the keynote speaker will be United States Army and Vietnam War veteran Richard Sienkiewicz. The event is organized by members of VFW Post 5077.
St. Charles City Event:
- Veterans Day Parade:
- Date and Time: November 11th, 2023, starting at 10 a.m.
- Location: 5th Street, St. Charles.
- Details: The parade will be followed by a vendor fair at the Lewis and Clark Boathouse parking lot, starting at 11 a.m. The day will include live music, food, and culminate with a fireworks display around 6 p.m.
- More Information: St. Charles Salutes Veterans Day Celebration
City of St. Peters Event:
- Veterans Day Ceremony:
- Date and Time: Saturday, November 11th, 2023, at 10 a.m.
- Location: Cultural Arts Centre at City Hall, One St. Peters Centre Blvd., St. Peters, MO.
- Details: The event, hosted by the St. Peters Veterans Memorial Commission, will feature guest speakers Col. Kevin Golinghorst and Capt. Andrew Bender. Refreshments will be served after the ceremony.
Cottleville Event:
- Veterans Day Ceremony at Avalon Park:
- Date and Time: Unveiling of the Honor Wall at 11:30 a.m., Veterans Day Ceremony at 12:00 noon.
- Location: Avalon Park, 11001 Cottleville Dr., Cottleville, MO 63304.
- Details: The ceremony includes live Color Guard, trumpet players, master of ceremonies, and more to salute all Veterans.
For a full list of events around the St. Louis area, click here.