Veterans’ Day 2013

Bridget Bator ’14

Staff Writer

“Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave, O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.” These words, taken from the United States National Anthem and sung at the beginning of sporting events, are often sung without consideration for what the words truly mean. Our flag, a symbol of the diversity of our people and the unity under this great nation, is the ultimate representation of our country’s strong belief in the value of freedom. Since its humble beginnings, our country has fought for the right to this freedom. In fact, Veterans’ Day, the day on which we honor those who sacrificed their lives for democracy, began with the end of a war. On the eleventh day of the eleventh month in the eleventh hour of 1918, a treaty of “the war to end all wars” was put into effect. World War I ended with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles which essentially sent Germany into bankruptcy beyond repair. Ironically, Armistice Day, as it was officially named in 1938, became one of the causes of World War II. Originally, this holiday was celebrated solely for the veterans of WWI. However, after the greatest mobilization of soldiers and sailors in WWII and the Korean War, Armistice Day was renamed Veterans’ Day in 1954. Today, we honor all veterans for every American war on November 11th. Here at Nouvel, we have a special Mass and invite local veterans to receive a blessing. If you know a veteran, be sure to tell them to come celebrate Mass with us on Veterans’ Day! We would love to meet all of the men and women that keep our country safe and free.

Dylan Schnepf ’14

Staff Writer

Freedom isn’t free. We all know that. We also know who to thank, those who risked their lives for our country. Often, though, we are not sure of the full extent of their duties. Both of my grandfathers are veterans, and although they did not see action, they were ready to at any moment.

George A. Schnepf, Naval Veteran

What is the highest rank you earned during your career?

In the Navy it is referred to as a “rate” for enlisted men, and I never moved up past an enlisted Seaman.

Where did you receive your basic training?

My boot camp took place in Great Lakes, Illinois just north of Chicago. I began my Tour of Duty at Whiting Field Naval Air Station, Milton, FL. In 1960, I was transferred to Norfolk, Virginia and assigned to the USS Newport News CA 148.

What outfit were you associated with?

I was associated with the 6^th Fleet of the US Navy on the USS Newport News, CA 148. I was on a Mediterranean cruise, during which I saw Spain, France, and Italy.

What made you join the military—specific branch?

I’m not quite sure, but both my Dad and older brother were navy men, so I guess it was a family tradition. I also felt a sense of duty, and I signed up in order to choose my branch and assignment, rather than be drafted and not be able to choose what I would do.

What years were you active?

I joined the reserves right out of high school in May of 1958. I was active from 1958 to 1960, and then remained in the reserves until May of 1964. I always considered myself lucky, because I was too young for Korea and too old for Vietnam.

Are you involved in any veteran organizations or programs?

I am a veteran, but I would not consider myself active in any veteran organizations.

Gerald J. Sylvester, Army Veteran

What is the highest rank you earned during your career?

I earned the rank of Private 1^st Class on September 21, 1956, and then later on, I earned the rank of Sergeant.

Where did you receive your basic training?

I received my basic training Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and I spent my two years of active duty in Wertheim, Germany.

What outfit were you associated with?

I was part of the 97^th field artillery battalion. We would train with live artillery from a range of a little less than 20 miles.

What made you join the military—specific branch?

Well, I was drafted, so it was an obligated duty, but I felt that it was my duty as an American, and I did have the opportunity to get out of Michigan and see the world.

What years were you active?

I was drafted in 1955, and I returned home from Germany on July 26^th 1957. I was in the active reserves until 1962.

Did you receive any honors while active?

I received the European Theatre and Good Conduct medals.

Are you involved in any veteran organizations or programs?

Yes sir. I am the 1^st Vice Commander of John K. Fowler American Legion Post 239 of Linwood, Michigan.