Montana Veterans, Share Your Story in Missoula on Veterans Day

First things first- there are some great events lined up for Veterans Day in Missoula. Second, I'll be set up at the American Legion on Ronan Street in Missoula for the Veteran's Day breakfast with open microphones for our veterans to share their stories.

*Note- if you are a veteran or want to recognize a veteran, join me from 7a-10a at the American Legion on Ronan Street in Missoula. We will have the microphones open for you. 

Our friend Susan Campbell Reneau, a great supporter of veterans causes in Missoula, shared some history of the upcoming events. Susan tells us that this year's Veterans Day ceremony on the Missoula Courthouse lawn will be the 99th annual ceremony at that location.  

Susan: "This ceremony has been going on since Nov. 11, 1926 when the Doughboy Statue was dedicated by members of the American Legion Post 27 and its auxiliary. The Doughboy Statue depicts a World War I soldier, called a doughboy because soldiers ate their dough and other food in their medal helmets.  Veterans are encouraged to wear their uniform, hat, or a shirt related to their branch of service.  Everyone is encouraged to attend to honor our veterans on “their” day."  

U.S. Army Col. Vanessa Barry, Retired, will be the keynote speaker.  Members of the VFW Post 209 Honor Guard, American Legion Post 27 Color Guard, Knights of Columbus Patriotic Order, and Daughters of the America Revolution will participate.  Wreaths presented at the base of the Doughboy Statue are made by members of the American Legion Post 68 Auxiliary, headed by Helen Moore.  Prayers will be given by The Rev. Paul Armstrong, chaplain of American Legion Post 27, and the singing of the National Anthem will be led by Gina Hegg.

According to Susan, "Also happening on Veteran’s Day will be the traditional Veteran’s Day breakfast from 7 to 9 a.m. at American Legion Post 27, 825 Ronan Street, in Missoula.  Donations are gladly accepted to off-set the cost of the breakfast and raise money for American Legion Post 27 projects that help local veterans."