Observer editorial: Local VFW an often overlooked treasure of Kimball

Every year, in late May, Memorial Day comes around. Sometimes, we forget just why we have that three-day weekend, and focus instead on the cookouts, ball games and free time that we get.

Well, if not for the men and women who served and defended the United States, we wouldn’t have that three-day weekend. We wouldn’t have the softball league that starts on Friday. And we certainly would not be able to go to the fairgrounds and watch the Ranch Rodeo this weekend, either.

From the globe-engulfing World War II to the Korean Conflict and the decade-long battle in the jungles of Vietnam to the multiple conflicts that have taken place in the Middle East - Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom; we owe our soldiers dearly.

Even after their return home - some even as long as fifty years removed from their service in the military, these men and women - especially those here in Kimball - exemplify the very best this nation has to offer.

It goes so much further than the services they provide for Memorial Day. By taking part in the ceremonies, such as the flag disposal event that took place a couple weeks ago, or the Memorial Day ceremony that was held last week at the Kimball Cemetery, these men and women provided an excellent honor to the community.

They could have stopped there, went home and enjoyed their barbeques and sporting events, but they didn’t. Of course they didn’t. These heroes do things one way - the right way, all the way through.

The VFW then hosted a hamburger feed for all local veterans and their families downtown. They spent the rest of the morning preparing meals for those who have followed in their footsteps, serving the nation when the call of duty rang out. They spent the day with their family - those who understand what they’ve been through, and what they are still going through.

Throughout small towns across the United States, similar groups of veterans have come together in similar fashions over the years. But what the people of Kimball are blessed with is something that should be treasured, something that all should be thankful for - multiple generations of leaders that have always come together to support their community.

Take the time to spend some time with these remarkable men and women who have served. They are the leaders every part of this nation need.

They are the heart and soul of America. They are the heart and soul of this town.

They are the heroes we needed many years ago, and the ones we are lucky to still have today.