Rotary Hears Stories of Veterans’ Sacrifices

Brent Frey and Patrick Click

      The Vandalia Rotary Club welcomed Rotarian Brent Frey as the program speaker at its August 19 meeting. Frey shared personal and local stories of military service, focusing on both World War II and Vietnam veterans.

      He began with memories of his grandfather, who served in the U.S. Army’s anti-aircraft artillery from North Africa to Germany. Though his grandfather never spoke much about his experiences, Frey later discovered photos from concentration camps that helped explain his silence. “He was part of the Greatest Generation that built the nation we live in today,” Frey said.

      Frey also recounted the story of Vietnam veteran Carl Lammers of Clinton County, who was severely wounded when his platoon came under heavy attack. Despite his injuries, Lammers survived three days of battle before being evacuated. Frey noted the challenges many Vietnam veterans faced when returning home and contrasted that with the respect now shown through programs like the Honor Flight.

      The meeting closed by encouraging support for local veterans, including helping the American Legion restore its museum of wartime artifacts. There was emphasis on the importance of preserving stories and memorabilia so that future generations can understand the sacrifices made.