Hundreds remember fallen vets in Streamwood

The Village of Streamwood marked the 20th anniversary of its Veterans Memorial Day Ceremony a little differently than it had in the past two decades.

A heavy storm rolled through the area moments before the ceremony was set to begin, forcing about 300 people to cram into village hall for the event. It was the second time in the ceremony’s history that weather forced a change of location.

Once inside, service members from all branches of the military, as well as local fire and police departments, stood shoulder-to-shoulder with civilians. The concert band played and memorial wreaths were laid.

Streamwood Village President Billie D. Roth honored veterans who gave their lives in combat.

“The words hero and courage are used too lightly today,” Roth said. “The real heroes are the people who choose to serve and protect our nation, but also to protect those who cannot protect themselves.”

Roth also honored the war dogs who have perished in various battles throughout history. The dogs are used as messengers, scouts, guards and companions that have saved thousands of lives as they sniff out land mines and enemy ambushes.

This year marked the 10th anniversary of the village’s War Dog Memorial.

Other notable speakers included Congressman Peter Roskam of Wheaton and founding members of the Streamwood Veterans Memorial Commission.

“We have been entrusted with incredible freedoms by the people who preceded us and laid down their lives,” Roskam said. “I ask, ‘What do we do with this?’ A day like this will mark us, measure us and ultimately change us.”

For Ruth Carlson, of Hanover Park, the day is used to praise veterans, especially her father who served in World War II, and to honor those who will one day become veterans.

“It is important to remember that we will always have new veterans, that there’s the chance for future wars,” Carlson said.