At the Idaho State Veterans Home in Boise, heroes of past and current conflicts were thanked for their service. Lieutenant Governor Brad Little read a proclamation from Governor Otter honoring Saturday as Veterans Day in Idaho.
“Freedom and liberty have been protected by the 1% of which is largely represented by the people in this room. Whether you're a veteran of W.W.II or came home this week, I just want to say from the 99% of the people of the state of Idaho god bless you, God bless your family, and God bless the caretakers who take care of you,” said Lieutenant Governor Brad Little of Idaho to the crowd.
During the ceremony, veterans of World War II were handed long-stemmed red roses in honor of their service. Senator Crapo's office also handed out The Spirit of Freedom Service Awards to veterans and their family members who are helping others in the community. Steve Spickelmier was awarded for his volunteer service at the Idaho Veterans Cemetery where his son, Sergeant Jared Spickelmier rests in peace. For Steve, volunteering is just one way of giving back.
“To honor our veterans for the sacrifice and service they did for our country without them we wouldn't be where we are now,” said Steve Spickelmier.
While veterans say there are many different reasons why they choose to serve, all of them says it's an honor.
“We love this country and we're proud of it and it doesn't take veterans day to tell a veteran thank you,” said Chief Master Sergeant Chad Bickle of the 366th Fighter Wing. “I get it all the time 'Thank you for serving,' and you know what I tell them? It's an honor to serve.”
