Veterans fold an American flag and describe what each fold means as part of the annual ceremony.
With reverence and gratitude, Palos Hills honored its veterans Saturday at a moving memorial service, where community members gathered to pay tribute to those who have served and continue to serve. Veterans, local officials, and residents filled the Palos Hills Community Center, joining in a collective expression of respect for military service and sacrifice.
The service opened with the John Whiteside Ceremonial Color Guard and the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery Memorial Squad presenting the colors. Attendees sat in quiet reflection as piper Wayne Hoefler’s rendition of “God Bless America” echoed through the hall, setting a solemn tone for the morning.
Mayor Gerald Bennett led the Pledge of Allegiance alongside Cub Scout Pack 3668, followed by a stirring rendition of the national anthem by the Sacred Heart Church musical ensemble. Deacon Thomas Rzendzian, also of Sacred Heart, offered a prayer, invoking unity and healing for the community as they honored the contributions of service members.
In a reflective flag-folding ceremony, the color guard described the significance of each of the 13 folds, each representing a different ideal—life, peace, and a commitment to remember the fallen. Each fold symbolized values veterans uphold: the red in the flag as a symbol of blood shed in battle, the white as a commitment to peace, and the blue representing freedom. The folded flag, presented with reverence, embodied the unity and bravery that veterans inspire.
Girl Scout Troop 55857 shared thank-you notes addressed to veterans, calling them “heroes,” “role models,” and “loyal protectors,” expressing their gratitude and admiration for the courage veterans have shown.
Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller (D-6th) addressed the gathering, recognizing the commitment of veterans and their families. “Freedom is not free,” Miller reminded the audience. “It is earned through the dedication of those who have stood on the front lines for us all.” She outlined new county initiatives for veterans, including increased funding for the Veterans Assistance Commission and job training partnerships.
Retired Army veteran Jim Kruse, founder of Kruse’s Krew, reflected on the enduring pride and duty shared by veterans. “As veterans, we vowed to defend you and this beautiful country,” Kruse said. “This oath has no end date.” He spoke of the respect veterans hold for the flag and the importance of protecting the freedoms Americans cherish.
A memorial wreath presentation followed, along with a moving rendition of “Taps” by bugler George Klimaitis, accompanied by Joanne Vent from Sacred Heart.
In his closing remarks, Mayor Bennett recalled a story shared by last year’s keynote speaker, Medal of Honor recipient Kyle Carpenter. Bennett presented a signed copy of Carpenter’s memoir, You Are Worth It, to Jim Kruse, recognizing veterans’ unwavering dedication and resilience.
As the service ended, the Sacred Heart ensemble performed “America the Beautiful,” and the colors were retired. Veterans and attendees gathered for a coffee reception, with McDonald’s contributing ice cream sundae certificates to thank veterans for their service.
As the last notes of “America the Beautiful” faded, a shared sense of gratitude lingered in the air. The community’s commitment to honor its veterans was reaffirmed—a promise to remember their sacrifices, not only on Veterans Day but always.
Veterans head into the ceremony Saturday at the Palos Hills Community Center.