Staff photo by Fritz Busch Veteran’s Day Program guest speaker Dave Borchert says military service “an experience of a life time.”

NEW ULM — Cathedral High School hosted the New Ulm Veteran’s Day Program Tuesday with New Ulm Police Chief and Brown County Commissioner Dave Borchert and a variety of music.

Borchert talked about the bonds of service many veterans provide to strengthen communities in past, today and into the future.

“I was proud to serve in the U.S. Army and Minnesota National Guard. Being a military veteran is among the most important things I’ve done. It carries a sense of deep pride in me,” said Borchert. “The contributions of our military past and present are profound. Military service is an experience of a lifetime. Every veteran carries experiences that are similar and unique. Shaped by branches of service and global challenges, there is a bond that binds us and extends to our families.”

He said veteran’s sacrifices deserve recognition. That every veteran takes an oath to the U.S. Constitution and writes a blank check payable to the United States up to and including a veteran’s life.

“We serve our nation, however it needs us. In combat, humanitarian missions, peacekeeping or fighting terrorism,” said Borchert. “Service carries honor and responsibility to protect the freedom, life and liberty of all people including future generations of this great nation. God bless all of you that served this great nation. Thank you and happy Veteran’s Day.”

Master of Ceremonies, Post 1648 VFW Commander and Vietnam Veteran Tom Roesch, urged veterans to become involved in veterans organizations that can help them and their dependents.

“Every day, 17 veterans die of suicide. If you’re a veteran and don’t belong to a veteran’s organization, why not? They would be happy to have you,” he said.

Musical selections were provided by the Cathedral High School Band and Concord Singers who sang “Let There Be Peace” and the “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” The New Ulm Area Veterans Color Guard advanced and retired the colors (flags).

Cathedral students handed out papers that read “Dear Veterans, Thank you for serving.”