Ceremony pays tribute to 1137th MP Co. soldiers

The day was one of tribute as a large crowed turned out Sunday morning to honor the National Guard 1137th Military Police Company.

The ceremony, entitled Freedom Salute for Operations: Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, was held at the VFW Post 5443 in Kennett.

"The Freedom Salute campaign is one of the largest Army National Guard recognition endeavors in history," said 1st Sergeant Phillip Greenway, master of ceremonies.

"It is designed to publicly acknowledge our veterans and guard soldiers as well as those who supported them during recent military operations in Noble Eagle, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom."

After the presentation of colors, singing of the National Anthem and Invocation, the group heard from guest speaker Brigadier General Michael Pace.

"I want to express my heartfelt thanks not only to the soldiers and families, but to you folks of this community," Pace said. "I was here roughly six months ago...and I was absolutely amazed at the number of folks that turned out for that.

"I am so thankful that we have strong community support such as what has been displayed here," said Pace. "I am truly honored to be here."

Pace explained that the main goal of the ceremony was not only to honor soldiers, but to honor the sacrifices made by the soldier's spouse and children.

"My role here today is to salute your achievements...and to show you my respect for your service and your self-sacrifice," said Pace. "We all know that deployments are extremely difficult times, not only for the soldiers, but of course for the families.

"You and your families truly know the meaning of self-sacrifice," Pace said.

Since Sept. 11, 2001, the Missouri National Guard has deployed more than 5,000 soldiers and airmen. Currently, an estimated 3,300 are still deployed, both nationally and abroad.

"I ask that you remember these deployed soldiers and continue to remember these deployed soldiers as we celebrate these accomplishments today," Pace said.

Special recognition was given to Spc. Robert D. Wake who received injuries sustained under hostile fire in a mortar attack during operation Iraqi Freedom May 16.

Items presented to soldiers included unit banners, a flag case containing a special American flag and a two-sided commemorative coin which was also given is a stand-alone commemorative coin given only to guard members and a Defender of Freedom certificate.

Presenting the items were the official party which included Pace; State Rep. Otto Bean; Donald Parker, Kennett mayor; Randy Morgan, VFW Post 5443; Jan McElwrath, Kennett Chamber of Commerce; Jack Rollins, Daily Dunklin Democrat editor; retired Col. Brian Taylor, Security Bank of Pemiscot County.

The City of Kennett was also honored with a 17-inch statue of the National Guard Minute Man.

"We wish to publicly acknowledge our sincere gratitude for the community's distinguished support," said Greenway. "They will receive a 17-inch tall National Guard Minute Man as a token of our appreciation."

Accepting the award for the city was Mayor Parker.

"I am astounded at this and greatly appreciate it," said Parker. "I want you to know that the city of Kennett has had a National Guard unit here for a long time.

"Speaking on behalf of the city, we always have appreciated the National Guard and we have always tried to support it," Parker said. "Anything we can do to support it, while I'm mayor, we will do."