LETTER: Lost airman’s return reminds us of what we owe veterans

To Ozaukee Press:

     My husband is a member of the Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard.  His forefathers (and the foremothers who supported them) fought in the Revolutionary War.

Recently we attended an interment service for a just identified World War II airman. On Sept. 27, the remains of World War II airman Staff Sgt. Ralph H. Bode were interred at Graceland Cemetery in Racine. This was 80 years after his death.

  Sgt. Bode’s plane was shot down over Germany in 1944. In 2023, using modern DNA science, his remains were finally able to be positively identified. Sgt. Bode was coming home to be placed beside his parents’ grave site in Racine.

     The memorial service included Bode family members, veterans and over 100 other people who came to pay their respects. A military plane flyover honored Bode and his sacrifice for our country and “Taps” was played. It was a very moving, respectful ceremony for someone who had paid the ultimate price for our country.

     Monday, Nov. 11, is Veterans Day. Take a moment to thank a veteran for their time served. Without their commitment to our country, we would not be able to enjoy the freedoms in the U.S. of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Veterans’ sacrifices should not be taken for granted or forgotten. They deserve our honor and respect.

Karen Meador

Port Washington