MOUNT VERNON — As Taps echoed throughout Mount Vernon’s Public Square, all were still for those who served in the United States Armed Forces.
A steady breeze lifted several American flags during Mount Vernon’s Veterans Day service Monday, with clear skies casting shadows on flags across the square.
MTVarts artistic director Bruce Jacklin spoke about the legacy of service in the United States, surrounded by veterans on the crisp November day.
“As an Army engineer, I never saw combat because we were pulling our troops back in 1975 (Vietnam,)” Jacklin said.
“However, I still know the sacrifices, the struggles and the courage of the soldiers that did see combat.”
Jacklin’s family has a long line of veterans: from his grandfather who served in World War II, to his father in the Korean War.
“My brother was in Vietnam, serving our country has long been a tradition in our family, and one that has been proud to carry on when my son told me in 2013 that he had enlisted,” Jacklin said. “I felt a different, more complex emotion than sheer pride.
“As a parent would be, I was scared for my son. I was proud of the decision he made but the fear was nearly paralyzing.”
Jacklin’s son was deployed in Iraq during high tensions in the Middle East, he said.
Not a day went by where he didn’t imagine the absolute worst.
“I thought of him right before I woke up and he was the last person on my mind when I went to bed,” Jacklin said. “I kept awake at night wondering whether he would return safely.
“However, that’s just a part of the sacrifice that not only the soldiers but the families that support them selflessly and willingly make.”
Though there were hardships, hope can be found on the other side.
It was when Jacklin’s son returned from Iraq that he introduced the family to his soon-to-be wife.
“They have three beautiful, hilarious and rambunctious children whose parents only cross paths because of the time they spent in the military,” Jacklin said.
“Veterans Day is a day to honor the service and sacrifices of all veterans living and deceased and to recognize their contribution to the nation.”