Sharing stories, honoring those who served – Daily Press

“Guard zealously your right to serve in the Armed Forces, for without them, there will be no other rights to guard.”

Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer repeated the words — made famous by President John F. Kennedy in 1962 — during a luncheon Friday to honor Hampton Roads veterans.

The gathering, hosted by the Hampton Roads Council of Veterans Organizations, gave veterans, loved ones, supporters and event volunteers a chance to break bread together and partake in a little camaraderie while celebrating America’s veterans.

“We recognize those in attendance who have served, pay special tribute to those missing in action and prisoners of war with a dedicated ceremony, and pay tribute to all of America’s veterans,” said council President Dan Doyle.

Nearly 300 local veterans and their loved ones got together at the Double Tree hotel in Virginia Beach for the council’s 14th annual Veterans Day luncheon. It was one of the only Veterans Day celebrations not canceled as remnants of Hurricane Nicole moved through the area Friday.

While all attending veterans were recognized, this year’s event had two special honorees introduced to the audience: a World War II veteran who fought at the Battle of the Bulge and a Vietnam War veteran who was held captive for 10 years.

Stewart Boone, who had dreams of becoming a high school band director, was drafted into the Army in August 1942. Two years later, he would be on the front lines of one of history’s bloodiest battles. He recalled his time in Belgium digging fox holes in petrified, frozen ground and evading enemy fire and German tanks.

“We had heard reports of troops being massacred, so surrendering had its unknowns,” Boone said.

Boone was one of 11 from his 80-man unit to survive the Battle of Bulge. Now 98, he is the last living survivor from his group.

“They call themselves ‘the lucky 11,’” Boone’s daughter, Brenda Boone Street, said. “But I always tell him he is the luckiest of the 11.”

An empty table nestled in the corner of the room served as a memorial for prisoners of war and those reported missing in action. One Hampton native sitting a few tables away shared a unique connection with the memorial table.

Bob Allen retired from the Navy in 1983 after 15 years. But he spent the bulk of his military service in a POW camp in Vietnam. While he doesn’t like to share details of his experiences, he said he enjoys seeing the strong military support from community members.

“It shows the veterans they are not forgotten,” Allen said.

Glenn Hart, a retired senior chief petty officer with the Navy, echoed Allen.

“Veterans have issues due to service — post traumatic stress disorder, depression, suicide are highest among our veterans,” Hart said. “It’s important that we remember veterans have these issues and that we don’t forget our responsibility as citizens to support our veterans.”

Pastor John Collins gave the benediction, thanking those who served in his prayer.

“Because of Nov. 11, we should be thankful for those used to secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, as it says in the preamble,” Collins said. “So veterans, whether you fought for God and country — thank you. Whether you fought for flag and freedom — thank you. Whether you fought for democracy or the republic — thank you.”

Caitlyn Burchett, [email protected]