The PrimeTime group of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church recognized six local veterans from the Judd Kendell VFW Post 3873 at its monthly meeting in November. PrimeTime is a group that offers programs on a wide range of topics and interests for seniors and is also engaged in local charitable projects.
Don Wampach described the meeting as a time when each of the veterans shared prominent memories of his tour of duty “in the service of our country.”
Representing World War II were Army veteran Bill Howland and Navy veteran George Hogrewe. Howland served in North Africa, in Italy at Monte Cassino and the liberation of Rome, France, and Germany. He became a prisoner of war in Germany but was able to escape.
George Hogrewe served on the USS Detroit in the Pacific Ocean, from the Aleutian Islands in the north to the Galapagos Islands in the south. His ship, which had survived Pearl Harbor, sailed into Tokyo Bay along with the USS Missouri for the surrender of Japan.
Representing the Korean Conflict were Lee Lindberg and Frank Haynes. The Vietnam veterans were Phil Maughan and Barney Siwek.
The meeting was opened by another Vietnam veteran, Deacon Larry Kearney, of St. Thomas the Apostle. He began with an inspiring preamble recognizing all veterans and followed with a reflective prayer. After leading the group in the Pledge of Allegiance, he recognized all other veterans in the audience. He closed the meeting with a tribute to those who served in World War I.
Refreshments were served, which included some of Lee Lindberg’s famous old time ginger bars, prepared by Betty Wampach, using a recipe she found in Positively Naperville.
The next meeting is set for 10AM on Wed., Dec. 13, in the Lighthouse at St.Thomas. All are welcome.