Places to sit, flags to salute

WHEN ARE BENCHES MUCH MORE THAN BENCHES, flag poles more than just flag poles?

Drake Snell, pastor at Lake Sarah Lutheran Church in Garvin, said at his Sunday blessing at Wheels Across the Prairie Heritage Center that the flags that flutter in the ever-present wind signify a time to pause and reflect on the service and sacrifice that our veterans and their families gave. And the new benches can be used as a tool of sorts to remember as we pause and take time to remember those who fought for our freedoms as the country celebrates 250 years.

“I was also reminded as I walked through the heritage center that is it important to recount how God has worked in our lives and in a nation of people,” said Snell. “The benches, as I saw them, reminded me that it is important for one generation to sit down with the next generation to recount what has happened.”

Last week, a total of 41 benches made of rececyled materials were delivered and placed strategically around museum campus, including at the Veterans’ Memorial.

Veteran LeRoy Johnson spoke on behalf of American Legion groups everywhere during the military recognition portion of Sunday’s event. Johnson said through his travels, he has seen a lot of museums around the country and complimented the City and museum for what has been built here.

“The progress that has been made is commendable,” he said. “It’s probably going to be one of the best in this part of the county; it really is something to behold.”

A major part of the museum’s addition over the last few years are the light poles and 49 flagpoles that line the sidewalk on campus, each one adorned with an American flag. These are the result of donations, some in honor of veterans.

“If you come in to Tracy from the west side on the highway, you’ll notice at night that it’s quite a sight to see,” Johnson said. “It’s really, really beautiful.”

Johnson also spoke about American Legion posts in general, saying there are many small towns who no longer have Legion clubs.

“A lot of people take the American Legion for granted,” he said. “They think it’s just something every community should have. The Legion are men and women who have served their time and also dedicate their time to provide services to honor other veterans as well.”

Tracy American Legion Commander Dave Dieter spoke as well and paused to give attendees a chance to shout out names of veterans lost in past wars. Museum Director Jon Wendroff then lowered the main American flag by the Veterans’ Memorial to honor all veterans and the Honor Guard gave a gun salute after the singing of the National Anthem, and Taps was played by Jeff and Evelyn Buyck.

Lyon County Commissioner Rick Anderson can remember when the original barn was moved to the museum campus and mentioned how nice it is to be witness to all the improvements and how the museum has grown.

“It’s amazing,” he said. “I’ve been bless to have two wonderful museums in my district … to have those is a true blessing, and it tells kids who we are and where we came. And that’s important.”

City of Tracy Development Director Tom Dobson added that the museum means a lot to Tracy and said he is always surprised by how much Tracy has to offer for a small community.

“Certainly, this is one of those gems that many communities in our area that are twice and three times are size can’t support,” said Dobson. “I wasn’t here when it first got going, but I’ve been here long enough to see it come to this stage — the number of hours that individuals have volunteered with ideas and outreach … we notice, and we thank you.”