Jeff Whitbey encouraged us to invite friends and coworkers to an upcoming club meeting.  He also encouraged us to visit other clubs when we're out of the town.

 

 

Ron DiLiddo introduced Tim Reese, a retired Colonel with the US Army.  He spoke about the Veterans Day holiday and its history.  He is part of the committee that helped build the Veterans Tribute in Oakland Township (N. Adams Rd. and Silver Bell Rd.).  He noted that this year was the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day, which formally ended World War I.  Initially, it was called Remembrance Day to honor World War I veterans, and in 1954, President Eisenhower renamed it Veterans Day to recognize veterans from all wars.  He shared that 4 million men from the US served in WWI, with 2 million serving as part of the American Expeditionary Force (AEF), commanded by General Pershing (which included both Army and Marines under his command).  350,000 African Americans served in WWI and over 1,500 women served as part of the medical corps.  WWI witnessed significant change in the nature of combat including the use of airplanes, tanks, and unrestricted submarine warfare (sinking of military and civilian ships).  Currently the only WWI monument in Washington, DC, is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, but there is a WWI monument being planned.  He also spoke of Michigan's participation in the war both in terms of men and resources dedicated to the war effort.  He also spoke about the Veterans Tribute of Oakland Township, which was formed in 2016 has received lots of support to make the tribute possible.  He closed by talking about the US Army, and that the Army is currently present in 120 of the 190 nations across the globe.  He stated how the percentage of veterans in each generation is reducing, especially it has been a volunteer force since 1973.  He concluded his program by taking several questions.  Thank you, Tim, for your service to our country and for your program today!