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'We Kept Our Country Safe' The Rev. Theodore Calhoun Sr. (Third from left) surrounded by the Varick Veterans Ministry. The Veterans Ministry of Varick Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church in Hackensack hosted its 10th annual Appreciation Service on Nov. 8 in honor of the men and women who served in the U.S. military during World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam, and Desert Storm. The Rev. Theodore Calhoun Sr., a retired Marine, and the Rev. William Lawson, a veteran of the Vietnam War, brought the honorees to attention, and Nathan Briggs, an Army veteran and the ministry's president, passionately guided the program. "War changes everyone who goes. Minds are changed. Anger is increased. I hope that we can do our part here to let civilians know what vets have gone through," Briggs told the crowd. The service was filled with traditional patriotic tunes and inspirational songs presented by the all-veteran Male Chorus of the Williams Chapel Choir of Passaic. There were scripture readings, prayers for all soldiers and their families and reflections from those who deeply love the United States and were proud to serve it. Walter McDowell, 95, of Hackensack, presented a stirring account of his tour in World War II. McDowell was a member of the historic all-black 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion, better known as the "Triple Nickels" of the 82nd Airborn Division. He told of his experiences with Gen. George Patton, who made McDowell change his uniform. He also spoke of the racism that plagued the military. "We gained respect," McDowell said of the black soldiers. "They didn't know what to do with us but they knew that they could call on us anytime they needed assisstance." Other soldiers spoke of the emotional and physical stress that is foreign to civilians. The uniform, the weaponry and the military shield cannot defend what goes through the mind of a soldier under wartime duress, they said. "We all are one in servitude; no matter where we serve," Calhoun said. The program ended with a special communion for the veterans and the raising of the American flag. "All of our vets need our support and to be recognized," said Marlene Cozart-Rogers who served in the U.S. Navy. |