To the editor:

The American Legion, The American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion held a joint memorial service for deceased members on Jan. 29. The Post 132 Memorial Service honoring my dad and other vets was exceptional.

They made it so personable, not just for themselves and their service family, but all the families that came to be a part of it. I had this warm feeling within as an outsider. I knew my strong emotions were the result of seeing things a little deeper that night. I actually “felt” this other family of dad’s. I understand a little more why he didn’t want to miss the reunions with his comrades.

This ceremony was well deserved for those vets, but it was much more than I though it would be. I saw tonight, that dad and the other vets being honored, their group–their comrades, look at each other as their own. As I look at dad as “mine,” they seem as “theirs” too.

First Vice Commander, Roger Hoffmann, had us turn phones off and stay seated until the ceremony was over. All the lights were turned off. A candle was lit. A written description of each vet being honored, including the number of years they were a member of Post 132, was lit up in flames. Prayers were led by the Bishop. Taps was played. All of this took my emotions to a different level. Having to turn off phones showed this was a personal, very dedicated ceremony that deserved the utmost respect, social media had no place here.

Then we had a great meal, with great company, after the ceremony.

Being a member of Seifert-Bianchi American Legion Post 132 for 71 years, I now understand better why this group and his membership was so very important to dad. I think dad held on to pass away on his favorite holiday–Memorial Day.

Thank you Post 132 for helping me understand on a deeper level and a huge thank you for what you’ve done for my dad and other vets.

Thank you to all you vets–year an awe-inspiring elite group.

Sabrina Traulich

New Ulm