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have made our modern lives possible.These untold stories and memories are vital to our nations history and our fu- ture generations need to hear them. Some may argue that our history books can teach us all we need to know but there are some things books cant teach us such as how to withstand how to recover and how to grow in the face of lifes challenges. Veterans ex- periences and memories as difficult as they were teach us about the past and connect our generations. My gen- eration as well as future generations need to understand how America became this great nation. We just as all Americans need to know the sacrifices and experiences that were made by so many veterans so that we can truly appreciate the awesomeness of America. With this being said I leave you with the words of Cal- vin Coolidge The nation which forgets its defenders will itself be forgotten. This was true back in 1920 when he spoke those words and it is true now. Its time to thank our true American idols by listening and learning about their dedication sacrifices and honor they had for this great na- tion. ESPRIT Page 17 VeteransAppreciation with the St. Helen Elks By YM SSgt Kevin Christenson Oregon Cascade OR Last November 9 the Oregon Cascade Young Marines performed color guard duties for veterans at a Veterans Day ceremony held in the St. Helens OR Elks facilities. Before the dinner Young Marines per- formed a posting of the colors.The chal- lenge was in the combination of low ceilings and tall flags. I was proud of my fellow Young Marines who adjusted and overcame the obstacle of the low ceil- ings. It was a privilege to be in the presence of our nations heroes. The veterans ac- cepted and appreciated us. The older Young Marines remind them of themselves when they started in the military.This is one of the ways were able to honor them.To usthey denied their status of herobut to us they are and that is what matters. Most meaningful to me was being able to interact with the veterans and getting the opportunity to recognize them for serving our country. The veterans were very appreciative of how we posted col- ors and then assisted disabled veterans with their dinner plates carrying trays and serving cake. I was able to share my knowledge of the cake cutting ceremonies of the Ma- rine Corps with the veterans. I told them how we follow this tradition during our annual Young Marines Ball to symbolize the passing of knowledge from one gen- eration to another. The St. Helens Elks have in turn hon- ored us by inviting us to attend all future veterans activi- ties and functions. The Music City Young Marines marching on Lower Broadway in down- town Nashville TN in the Veterans Day Parade. Afterwards several adult leaders and Young Marines attended American Legion Post 82 ceremo- nies and were lunch guests. Music City Marches in Nashvilles Veterans Day Parade