On Saturday, 9 November, 82 of us gathered in the Skyroom to honor and remember all those who served in the Armed Forces of the United States. Calvin Johnson, Navy Vet who served in the North and South Pacific, started us off with the Invocation. Breakfast was served followed by a Navy tradition of a "Cook's Parade" by our caterer Catina Keyes and her daughter. Calvin Joe then regaled us with a wonderful version of America the Beautiful and then, live and in person, sang the National Anthem acapella. Dr. Robbin Okamoto, Army Vet who served at Fort Dix during the peak of the Vietnam Conflict, led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Associate Pastor Nick Barrett discussed the formation of a leadership team and other possible Veterans Ministry pursuits. If interested, please contact Terry Sheffield at [email protected].

The main event at the breakfast was our speaker, Irv Rager. Awarded the Bronze Star with Combat V for Valor and the Purple Heart, presented on behalf of the President for those killed or wounded in combat, Irv shared his experiences in the Vietnam War beginning with the disruption of being drafted as a young college student in the late 1960s, a time marked by significant political and social unrest in American culture. He then recounted the trauma of combat as an infantry radio operator, describing the loneliness and isolation of tension-filled

days, the surreal engagement with the enemy, and his reliance on the awareness of God's presence and protection. He concluded by reflecting on the unexpected post-war stress which took years to overcome, even as he found joy in friends, family, and a fulfilling career. In closing, Irv emphasized the importance of seeking help for PTSD and reaching out to others who may be struggling.

Following the Armed Forces Medley, Ned Jones, Navy Vet and holder of the Bronze Star with Combat V and Purple Heart, closed with the benediction.