Veteran Recognition for Service to our Country

The Roswell Rotary Club launched a new initiative this year to honor and recognize the service men and women among us. It is just amazing to hear the stories and see the pictures. Most members had no idea the diversity of service and the critical roles that each played in protecting our freedoms.

It has been a segment of every club meeting to highlight one member's service and to present them with the Rotary military pin. Most are asked to lead us in the pledge of allegiance and offer any other comments they wish. We invite their families to join them on their day of recognition.

Many have been reluctant to stand for recognition, but as the year has progressed, the members are getting more relaxed and look forward to hearing about all the different ways in which their fellow members have served. And the stories run the gambit from combat roles to clergy and every support role imaginable.

It takes a lot of work to research the military histories of all of our members, but very rewarding once you can get members excited and engaged in the process. The program committee, club administrator and board have all participated in making this a success. It is mostly a time and research effort with our only cost being pins.