The City of Westminster last hosted its annual Veterans Day ceremony Nov. 11 at Longwell Armory and at the city's memorial garden behind City Hall.

The event was attended by about 75 people, and was led by Russell Myers Jr. of American Legion Carroll Post 31. The simple but solemn ceremony include prayers by the Rev. Dr. Fred Eckhardt and songs from vocalist Edith Burbage. Guest speaker was Sgt. Maj. Melvin Hoffman, a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom who was raised in Westminster.

Hoffman recounted his own experiences serving overseas. One particular anecdote recalled how, in Iraq, the American flag is not flown, and how he was able to see the American flag for the first time in seven months only when he was going on leave.

Hoffman became choked up as he told the story of seeing our flag at a military base, and told those in attendance, "As you can tell, it was very emotional for me."

Hoffman said the diversity of America's fighting force of today "is a true reflection of America itself," and he called upon veterans and civilians to thank those who serve their country in the military.

He didn't have to wait long for that result. After the service, as veterans filed out and made their way to their parked cars, a youngster on Winter Street walking with his parents caught sight of two men with their military caps, and cried out.

"Hey look," he said to his parents. "Veterans! Hey, happy Veterans Day!"

One of the two men waved back at him and smiled broadly.

Mission accomplished.

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