Greenbelt’s Veterans Day Ceremony was held on November 11 at Roosevelt Center. Mayor Emmett Jordan, members of the Greenbelt City Council, Maryland Delegate Anne Healey and American Legion Post 136 officers addressed community guests, veterans and those still serving in the military.
Jordan echoed President Biden’s Veterans Day remarks, saying that on Veterans Day we honor the bravery and dedication of those who have earned the title of “American veteran.”
Veterans of Vietnam, the Gulf War, Desert Storm and other conflicts were in the audience and heard praise for their service and learned of evolving veterans benefits. Delegate Healey said, “Veterans protect our way of life over and over again.” She also commented on legislation being developed that would provide GI Bill benefits to descendants of Black World War II veterans. The original GI Bill provided prosperity for post-war America, but Black World War II veterans were denied full access to these benefits. “The effort is designed for our leaders to correct injustices that occurred in an effort to make things better,” she said.
Post 136 Commander Mike Moore recognized veterans’ and active-duty personnel’s service to their nation. “On this day we are commemorating the service of veterans of all wars. We remember how men and women set aside their civilian pursuits to serve their nation’s cause, defending the freedom of mankind and preserving our precious heritage.” Representatives of the city council, Post 136 and the Greenbelt Police honor guard participated in the annual wreath-laying at the War Memorial. Moore said, “Every year we gather in front of this memorial to honor all of our fallen comrades with wreaths from the city, the Legion, the Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion.” The ceremony concluded with a rifle-firing salute and the playing of Taps. As everyone began to leave, one Greenbelt resident remained among the wreaths. Lee Ealley, an Army airborne veteran who served in Vietnam in 1968, said, “It’s right that we honor those who now serve, veterans and those we lost fighting for the freedom of our country. I’m glad our community cares enough to provide these ceremonies.”
