Retired Colonel Michael Haerr detailed his military experiences during Friday morning’s Veterans Day program at Prairie Central High School in Fairbury.
The local Veterans Assistance Superintendent for Livingston County retired from the Illinois Army National Guard in June of 2015. Haerr was mobilized after 9-11 and in 2007 and 2011, he was in Afghanistan where he assisted the Polish army.
While experiencing plenty of emotions, Haerr kept the faith of our forefathers. He found the Army through ROTC and never looked back. Ranger school was one of the things he wanted to do and had the opportunity to go through the training, referring to it as a high point in his career.
“I want you to know you could be me,” he told the PCHS student body.
Haerr is thankful and proud to be an American veteran and has learned the value of teamwork. He noted the training of all the military branches in the U.S. is the best in the world. While no one wishes for further wars, Haerr said we need to be ready.
“Let’s say a prayer and meditate on those who fought for our country.”
Jason Bunting, Illinois State Representative in the 106th district, reminded the audience to honor those who defended our freedom.
“We have these blessings because of millions of great Americans who have served and sacrificed,” said Bunting.
Bunting’s grandfather shipped out for the Pacific in 1943 and his father served in Vietnam. He thanked military families for their sacrifices when a loved one is away from home.
Paul Augsburger of the Fairbury VFW Post 9789 and PCHS English Teacher Dana Convery introduced students who participated in the Voice of Democracy contest. Since the results are still being tabulated, there is no winner at this time.
Members of the VFW Post 9789 and the Fairbury American Legion John Joda Post 54 presented the colors and PCHS senior Rayce Pekarovich led the Pledge of Allegiance. Pekarovich is a Private 1st Class, U.S. Army.
The high school band performed a Salute to America’s Finest and taps was performed by high school buglers.
Following the ceremony, veterans, activity military, families and community members were invited to the high school cafeteria for coffee and donuts.
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