Different Perspective Shared at Veterans Day Observance

A different perspective was shared during Friday's Veterans Day observance in Effingham.

Missy Koester of Effingham served in the US Navy. Koester served in a unique way, though, as a member of the Navy's Ceremonial Guard.

The Ceremonial Guard provides assistance at a variety of special events, including military funerals. Koester noted she participated in four to six funerals per day. She talked about the experience of presenting a US flag to the next of kin of a departed veteran or active duty military.

(U-S NAVY VETERAN MISSY KOESTER)

Koester had special opportunities during her time in the military, including participating in the funeral of President Gerald Ford and in the second inaugural parade of President George W. Bush.

Koester also commended those who serve in the color guards of the various veterans service organizations. She noted they take part despite rain, sleet, snow or oppressive heat. She asked for a round of applause for the color guards present for Friday's observance and challenged younger veterans to step up and do their part to help with such events in the future.

Our Greg Sapp spoke with Missy Koester after Friday's ceremony...