When Damon Darakjy asked Vietnam War veterans to stand Tuesday at McEuen Park’s Veterans Memorial Plaza, many did. 

The crowd of about 100 applauded, perhaps a tribute long overdue. 

“When you returned home, you were not given enough gratitude,” said Darakjy, who served with the Marine Corps and the Army in his distinguished career and was emcee of the Veterans Day gathering put on by the Coeur d’Alene American Legion Post 14 and the VFW Post 889. 

With flags flapping in the wind, young and old rose as veteran Charles Riffel, once again, rang the bell 11 times to start the ceremony that included salutes, songs and speeches on a sunny morning. 

The VFW Post 889 also presented a $1,000 check to the city to go toward a War World II statue to join the others — a miner, lumberjack, farmer, suffragist — created by artist Terry Lee on Front Avenue, as well as a World War II Army soldier commissioned by the late Bud Ford of Coeur d’Alene that stands at the Veterans Memorial Plaza.

Lee said a Navy nurse is next to be added to the collection that forms a history walk. His part, the clay work, is done. Next up, it must be cast into bronze at a foundry, which takes about seven months. 

It’s been difficult getting sponsors for the $75,000 project, Lee said, so the $1,000 was much appreciated. 

“That’s going to help,” he said. 

Bob Martin, an Army veteran who served four tours in Vietnam and has three Purple Hearts, was the keynote speaker. 

“Today brings us together to recognize the dedication and sacrifice of the men and women who put on a uniform to defend our nation,” he said. “Their commitment to service often went far beyond just wearing a uniform. They accepted challenges that most would turn away from, faced dangers most would flee from and carried burdens and responsibilities that most would not.” 

He told the story of his platoon that came under attack Aug. 13, 1967 in Vietnam. One man, Alan Lloyd, was hit and badly injured. Later, as he was being loaded into a helicopter, he said, “I’m sorry guys, I hate leaving you. I know you’re short-handed.” 

“Even then, Al was thinking of his teammates first,” Martin said. 

He said behind every right and liberty stands a long line of veterans to protect America’s freedoms. 

“Their sacrifices ripple through generations. Children grow up in safety because they stood guard. Communities thrive because they defended them,” Martin said. “Businesses operate freely because they protect our way of life. The depth of gratitude extends far beyond one day of recognition.” 

Martin said while Veterans Day offers a chance to say thank you, veterans should be supported throughout the year by ensuring access to health care, education and job opportunities.  

“Let this gathering serve as a reminder of our ongoing obligation to those who served,” he said. “May we honor their sacrifice not just with words, but through actions and support every day of the year.” 

    Charles Riffel rings the bell to start the Veterans Day ceremony at McEuen Park on Tuesday.
  

    Veterans Bob Martin, left, and Bob Smee salute during the Veterans Day ceremony at McEuen Park.
  

    Veteran J.B. Whipple wears a well-decorated hat on Veterans Day.
  

    Pastor Dave Bruyette address the crowd on Veterans Day at McEuen Park.