Good Crowd for Veterans Day Observance Despite Overcast Skies

The military serves in all kinds of weather, so overcast skies and a brief shower didn't faze those gathered Monday morning on the lawn of the old Courthouse in downtown Effingham for the 2013 Veterans Day observance.

(THE TEUTOPOLIS HIGH SCHOOL BAND PROVIDED PATRIOTIC MUSIC)

Guest speaker and Army veteran Bill Copple said it was his mission on Veterans Day to make his friends and neighbors who are veterans know of his appreciation for their service.

(BILL COPPLE)

Copple noted that Veterans Day, as opposed to Memorial Day when those who died in combat are remembered, is a day of celebration.  He said he was especially mindful of the thousands of "our best and brightest" who are currently deployed around the world.

Copple also urged continued efforts to give care to those returning veterans who are battling Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or other psychological as well as physical injuries.

Here's our interview with Bill Copple...

Other highlights of the ceremony included music from the Teutopolis High School Band, the National Anthem by Pat and Julie Zuber, the invocation and benediction from Father John Eaton, a 21-gun salute from Effingham American Legion Post #120 under the direction of Kenny Walls, and "Taps" by Calvin Kreke. 

(PART OF THE COLOR GUARDS ON HAND FOR THE EFFINGHAM VETERANS DAY OBSERVANCE)

Larry Wendt served as Master of Ceremonies.