By Gavin Dressler
Staff Photographer
The Curtis A. Smith Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1033 observed the 70th anniversary of the “date which will live in infamy” with its annual Pearl Harbor Day Remembrance Ceremony and Christmas Dinner.
Approximately 100 people attended Wednesday night’s dinner and ceremony, held at the Post home in Dolly Ann, which also saw the post honor its Citizenship Educators of the Year as well as the winners of the Patriot’s Pen and Voice of Democracy essay contests.
After opening remarks, Post Commander Paul Linkenhoker led a brief ceremony in remembrance of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, which led to the United States entering World War II by formally declaring war on Japan the following day.
“Let us remember the U.S.S. Arizona is still part of the U.S. Fleet,” said Linkenhoker of the American battleship sunk during the attack, “and those lost during the attack on December 7, 1941 will never be forgotten.”
Following the divine blessing delivered by Post Chaplain Paul Siple, Linkenhoker, recognized four members of the Post who are veterans of World War II. Those four include Siple, Van Noel, Ed Nicely and Bill Dressler Sr.
Post members who served in Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, and in Iraq and Afghanistan were also recognized.
The post, along with the Ladies Auxiliary, recognized the winners of its Patriot’s Pen essay contest. The contest is open to students in grades 6-8 in the Covington area.
Winners included Logan Kidd, first place, $100; Dakota Parr, second place, $75; and Brittany Osborne, third place, $50.
In addition, winners of the Voice of Democracy essay contest were also recognized. That contest was open to students in grades 9-12 in the Covington area. Winner included Miguel Petrosky, first place, $150; Kari Arritt, second place, $100; and Hayden Rice, third place, $100.
Also, the Post announced its Citizenship Educators of the Year. The awards are given to educators for their efforts in teaching patriotism, respect for the American flag and knowledge of the United States.
Winners included Sandy Moss, Boiling Spring Elementary School; Tammy Crane, Callaghan Elementary School; Becky Johnson, Falling Spring Elementary School; Joleen Feazell, Mountain View Elementary School; Shawn Truett, Sharon Elementary School; Becky Moran, Jeter-Watson Intermediate School; Jack Baker, Alleghany High School; and April Reyns, Edgemont Primary School.
Reyns was also announced the overall winner for the Post, as well as the District 6 winner. She received a $100 award. Each of the other winners received a $50 award.
Also during Wednesday’s dinner, Linkenhoker recognized the 2011 winners of the Post 1033 Dabney S. Lancaster Community College scholarship recipients. They included Logan Figgers, Alleghany High School, and Ashley Dameron, Covington High School.
Linkenhoker also acknowledged Sarah Persinger, of the Alleghany Highlands Community Services Board, for her effort in assisting local veterans.
Following the ceremony, a buffet-style meal was served.