The Bainbridge Rotary program on November 13th honored local veterans and families of active duty military.

Following a special Thanksgiving meal, guest speaker Rotary Past Governor of District 6900 Alfred J. "Al" Lipphardt was introduced by Bainbridge Rotary President Dr. Don Robinson. Lipphardt, himself a decorated war veteran, served two tours in Vietnam.

Lipphardt reminded all those in attendance of the sacrifices that have been made for hundreds of years by brave men and women to keep our country free. He stated that it is the duty of every American to serve our country, not just those in uniform. "Every citizen should serve in some capacity. We meed to understand what freedom is, that it must be earned."

Stating that Americans don't lack ability but lack the will to serve, Lipphardt told his fellow Rotarians, "there is a difference in being a Rotarian and being in Rotary". He went on to say that we as a nation have become self-involved, WIIFM (what's in it for me) mind-set.

Stating that the flag is not a symbol but a living part of being, Lipphart stated that we should think about the words as we say the pledge to the flag. He also stated that we should think about those that wear of have worn military uniforms over the years and support them.

As this was a special day for Rotary to recognize the sacrifices that have been made by military family members, Robinson read off the names of local men and women serving in Iraq. As the names were read attending family members were acknowledged. Door prizes were also given to them.

Other special quests at the luncheon included: Allen Ware, Cox Funeral Home, for organizing and continuing support for the Military Family Members Support Group; Bainbridge High School Air Force JROTC Col. Gary Breedlove and Master Sgt. Frank Geslak; Bainbridge High School Assistant Principal, Col. Patterson Moses; Retired Lt Col James Armstrong and Clarence Goad both World War II  veterans.
Also recognized were the staff for the 1230th Transportation Unit.