Editor’s note: FAO contributing reporter Chris Spangler is a member of the Fort Atkinson-Eli Pierce Chapter of the Wisconsin Society Daughters of the American Revolution. She both participated in and has submitted this report about a recent event held by the organization.
By Chris Spangler
Members of the Fort Atkinson-Eli Pierce Chapter of the Wisconsin Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) recently recognized local Vietnam veterans with a special salute.
DAR Regent Nancy Olson, Treasurer Mary Narkis and member Chris Spangler attended the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) Chapter 409 meeting Sunday, Nov. 19, at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Clubhouse in Fort Atkinson.
They presented members with 50th anniversary Vietnam War commemorative pins bearing an eagle, symbolizing courage, honor and dedicated service; a blue circle, matching the canton of the American Flag; a laurel wreath, representing honor and victory; stripes behind the eagle, recognizing the stripes on the American Flag, and stars symbolizing the six allies who served, sacrificed and fought alongside each other.
The VVA Chapter also was presented with a United States of America Vietnam War commemoration flag.
“We are here on behalf of the Department of Defense and the 50th Commemorative Committee honoring those who were ‘boots on the ground’ during the Vietnam War,” Olson said. “The Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 409 is an organization deserving of recognition as an honorary partner for your service.
“We realize this recognition is long overdue, but on behalf of the DAR and a grateful nation, thank you for your service and welcome home,” she added.
The Wisconsin Society DAR and its 25 chapters are designated partners of the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration. Originally proclaimed in 2012 by President Barack Obama, the commemoration’s goal was to recognize the 7.2 million Vietnam-era veterans still living in the United States. Pinning and flag presentations are continuing until 2025.
The mission of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution is education, historic preservation and patriotism. It also appoints teams of DAR volunteers to assist in programs and support of Veterans Administration hospitals and facilities. Wisconsin has 20 appointed members.
Cemetery flagpole
Also at the meeting, the VVA members heard from Betty Strese, a member of the Evergreen Cemetery Association Board of Directors.
She reported the installation of a flagpole replacing one near the Soldiers Circle that was damaged in the July 28 storm that also downed some 70 trees.
Located across the road just east of the Soldiers Circle, the flagpole’s wall and step are a match, albeit smaller, to the one built at the memorial court.
A large white pine, bur oak and cedar tree were destroyed in the July storm, leaving open sky in that area.
“The flagpole used to come up between some tall pines. We moved it just to the east side of that road. There used to be a big tree there that also went down,” she said.
“Along with the flag, one of the things that was of concern was the lighting: electrical lighting and solar lighting. We did both just in case of a power outage so we have a backup. The Vietnam vets flag is … (also) flying there,” Strese added.
She said the cemetery association now is raising funds for the landscaping that matches the wall at soldier’s circle. The final cost is not yet known.
Strese noted that while excavating, crews found two large boulders, one of which will be the location for a plaque in honor of veterans. Ideas are being sought for the exact wording.
“We still don’t have a bill yet because (the landscaping) is a work in progress, but we have $3,000 earmarked toward it and it’s going to come somewhere between $6,000 and $7,500, so I am campaigning big-time for funds,” Stress said.
“You can drive up there now and see it. It just wells you up with pride. It’s beautiful,” she concluded.
Checks to help the association in the wake of the July storm can be mailed to Evergreen Cemetery, c/o PremierBank, P.O. Box 218, Fort Atkinson, WI, 53538. Please indicate whether the donation is to go to the new veterans flagpole landscaping, tree replacement or other cemetery projects.
Two photos above: At top, Fort Atkinson-Eli Pierce Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution Regent Nancy Olson, at center, accompanied by Treasurer Mary Narkis, at left, addresses members of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 40, shown above, on Nov. 19.
Daughters of the American Revolution Treasurer Mary Narkis displays the Vietnam War 50th anniversary commemorative flag presented to the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 409 members.
Daughters of the American Revolution Treasurer Mary Narkis, at left, presents a veteran with a Vietnam commemorative pin.
Daughters of the American Revolution Regent Nancy Olson, standing, at right, and Treasurer Mary Narkis, also standing, distribute Vietnam commemorative pins to Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 409 members.
Nancy Olson, regent of the Fort Atkinson-Eli Pierce Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, thanks Vietnam veteran Kim Grunow for his service.
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 409 members view the Vietnam War commemorative pins given them by the Daughters of the American Revolution.
“Patriotic cookies” baked by Bon Ton Bakery in Jefferson, serve as treats for veterans celebrated by the Fort Atkinson-Eli Pierce Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution during a ceremony held earlier this month. The ceremony was held as a salute to members of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 409.
Betty Strese, a member of the Evergreen Cemetery Association Board of Directors, provides Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 409 members with information about a new flagpole and landscaping installation project underway near the cemetery’s Soldiers Circle.
Two photos above: Visitors to Fort Atkinson’s Evergreen Cemetery will find a newly installed flagpole located near the cemetery’s Soldiers Circle. The new installation replaces one that was damaged in a storm which moved through the Fort Atkinson area in July. Area veterans groups have been making donations towards the installation of the flag, and donations are being sought to cover additional elements, such as a wall and landscaping.
Chris Spangler photos.
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