Veterans Wall Dedication with Accompaniment by Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery Color Guard Memorial Squad and Vocal Music by Wayne Messmer
It was an event of great pomp and circumstance. The Veterans Tribute Wall Dedication at Oak Trace Senior Living in Downers Grove reflected dignity, honor, gratitude and respect.
On September 11th, a group of sixty-four veterans, including residents and team members of Oak Trace, were recognized and thanked for their selfless service, as a new honor wall was dedicated within the senior living community’s recently completed major renovation. The Oak Trace Foundation funded the project.
“The fact that this dedication is being held on 9-11 makes the event even more powerful. Today’s date is etched in all our minds. The acts of heroism that day must always be remembered,” said Dan Harrington, executive director of Oak Trace. “This is about our heroes: past, present and future. We are so grateful for your selfless service.”
The event began with a procession led into Oak Trace’s new Performing Arts Center (PAC) by the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery Color Guard Memorial Squad. The veterans living and working at Oak Trace followed. Retired U.S. Army Major General James Mukoyama accompanied the procession and delivered a brief speech.
A highlight of the ceremony was when renowned vocalist Wayne Messmer sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America.” Messmer’s voice is most often associated with singing the national anthem at Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Wolves and Chicago Blackhawks games
The Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery Color Guard Memorial Squad demonstrated the traditional folding of the American flag, which was then presented to Harrington to incorporate into the breathtaking wall.
There was then a solemn moment of silence for those who have served and passed.
Present at the event was Downers Grove Commissioner Greg Hosé. “It was inspiring to honor the heroes that have made our country what we enjoy today. We must truly always remember the freedom they have brought us. To see the veterans of Oak Trace and have the opportunity to say, ‘thank you,’ and especially be able to do that on behalf of the Village of Downers Grove, was truly an honor,” he said.
