Retired Marine describes soldier sacrifices at Cathedral Veterans Day program
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NEW ULM -- A retired Marine with multiple Iraq and Afghanistan campaign medals and many other awards told stories of Marines who gave up their personal safety to save the lives of others at the Veterans Day program at Cathedral High School Friday.
Gunnery Sgt. Joseph J. Stevens deployed all over the world in more than 20 years in the Marine Corps. He later earned a bachelor's degree in business and began working as a brewer at August Schell Brewing Co. in New Ulm in February 2022.
"Why do we celebrate Veteran's Day?" asked Stevens.
He told the story of a Marine who disregarded his personal safety to subdue aggressive enemy soldier with a bomb strapped to his body that was detonated.
"It was a critical, selfless act of of valor that saved the lives of three U.S. Army soldiers with him and while giving his life for his country with indomitable courage, warrior spirit and steadfast devotion to duty in keeping with the highest traditions of military service," said Stevens.
He told the story of another soldier in Operation Enduring Freedom in Helmand Province, Afghanistan in 2010 who disrupted enemy activity and provided security for the native Afghan population. Two marines were on a rooftop security post on a base perimeter during an enemy mortar attack.
Stevens told of how a Marine ran towards a grenade in an attempt to shield his fellow Marine from a blast when it detonated, severely wounding him, but saving the life of a fellow marine.
"It was bold, fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty in front of almost certain death, in the highest tradition of the U.S. Marine Corps," said Stevens.
"Ladies and gentleman, these are two examples of the types of heroes American continues to produce that are willing to give everything to save others," Stevens said. "We owe a debt of gratitude to these people so that we might be free. As John F. Kennedy (JFK) said, as we express our gratitude, we must never forget the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them."
Stevens said without the sacrifices and strength of veterans, Americans would not enjoy freedom.
"As George Washington said, to be compared to war is one of the most effective means of preserving the peace," said Stevens. "For many veterans, America was important enough to endure long separation from their families and loved ones, miss the birth of their children, roast in far-off deserts and lose their lives."
Stevens said military spouses have endured career disruptions, frequent address changes and an inappropriate share of responsibilities. Their children dealt with changing schools, separation from friends and the uncertainty of whether mom or dad would live to see them again.
"Warriors need advocates. That's why the American Legion exists, to advocate for veterans benefits. Veterans need their families, but most importantly, our country needs our veterans," Stevens said. "You can't fight a war without them. Freedom is not bought cheaply. It has a cost and imposes a burden. Six thousand vets take their lives each year."
Stevens said our debt to our heroes can never be repaid, but it should be remembered.
"Like JFK said. ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country. God bless America."
"Veterans are a symbol of what makes our country great. We must never forget all they have done to ensure our freedom. We are extremely grateful to have these brave men and women who are willing to protect and uphold the values of our country," said Cathedral High School Principal Erica DeVries.
"We are honored to share this special day with our…Thank you for your service, and thank you for coming to our school today," said Cathedral Student Council President Alexa Hornick.
The Concord Singers and Cathedral High School band provided music including the Armed Forces Medley and "Let There be Peace."