Silver Valley gathers to honor veterans

KELLOGG — Surrounded by dozens of Silver Valley veterans, Pastor Kevin Kessler spoke about gratitude, sacrifice and honor during the Silver Valley Veterans Day Memorial Service on Wednesday at the Silver Valley Veterans Memorial in Kellogg City Park. 

The annual observance brought together veterans, family members and community members to recognize the service and sacrifices of those who have served in the nation's armed forces. 

Kessler, a U.S. Army veteran, said it was a privilege to join the community in honoring veterans and reflecting on the meaning of military service. 

"Every veteran has a story," Kessler said during his address. "Some served during times of war. Others served during times of peace. Some served overseas, far from home and family, while others served right here on American soil." 

Kessler told attendees that while veterans' experiences may differ, they share a common bond. 

"They were willing to serve something greater than themselves," he said. 

Drawing from his own military experience, Kessler spoke about the sacrifices that often accompany service, including missed birthdays, holidays and family milestones, as well as the challenges many veterans continue to face after leaving the military. 

"There are physical wounds, emotional burdens and memories that some continue to carry long after their service has ended," Kessler said. 

Quoting President Calvin Coolidge, Kessler reminded attendees that "The nation which forgets its defenders will be itself forgotten." 

He also encouraged those in attendance to demonstrate their gratitude throughout the year. 

"Gratitude is more than something we say. It's something we demonstrate," Kessler said. "We demonstrate it by remembering their sacrifices, caring for those who are struggling, supporting their families and never taking for granted the freedoms we've been entrusted with." 

The ceremony also marked the dedication of a new time capsule at the memorial, a project intended to commemorate the nation's upcoming 250th birthday. 

Local veteran Lee Haynes, one of the original visionaries behind the memorial, spoke about the project and its significance to the community. 

"Last year, we decided to do this to commemorate our nation's 250th birthday and today we're going to dedicate it," Haynes said. 

The capsule will remain sealed for the next 50 years before a future generation opens it. 

The annual ceremony concluded with a longstanding Silver Valley tradition as the memorial's 155 mm howitzer cannon was fired.