McHenry to salute WWII veterans Aug. 12

Posted August 09, 2012 2:34 pm

Submitted by Ron Bykowski

McHenry’s observance of “Keep The Spirit of 45 Alive” day will be held at Veterans Park at 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 12. Congress has designated the second Sunday of each August as a national day of remembrance honoring members of “The Greatest Generation” and the end of World War II.

McHenry’s events in the past two years have gained national recognition for the city and combined veterans organization. During a presentation at the “Keep The Spirit of 45 Alive” National Conference held at the San Diego Air & Space Museum last February, representatives from 37 states were impressed that a town the size of McHenry has three active veterans organizations.

This year, they will be recognizing the history and efforts of the three veterans groups: American Legion Post 491, the Polish Legion of American Veterans Liberty Post 188 and VFW Post 4600, which is celebrating its 65th anniversary. Each organization has played an important role in fostering the enrichment of patriotic and civic spirit within the community.

This year’s program will consist of Honor Guards, a rifle salute and taps, played by at least 18 buglers and a release of 21 “White Doves of Peace.” World War II veterans are invited and will be honored guests with reserved seating in front of the gazebo.

In keeping with what “The Spirit of 45” observance is all about, there will be an appearance by the Lakes Area Swing Band, an 18-piece, 1940s-style swing band led by conductor Holly Frederichs, musicians and vocalists performing a replication of a 1940s radio broadcast with guest Lou Rugani of WLIP Kenosha Radio. He has been with station WLIP for more than 20 years and will bring back memories of that golden age of “swing.” The dance floor will be open. The band has played throughout Northern Illinois and this will be their first performance in McHenry.

This event will be held at 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 12 at Veterans Park, off Park and Pearl streets, one block west of the Fox River and one block north of Route 120 in McHenry.