BOISE - Sunday was all about our local World War II veterans as several families came together to celebrate what's called the Spirit of '45.
Spirit of '45 Day is a national celebration held every year during the second week of August to commemorate August 14, 1945 when the most destructive war in history ended.
The ceremony was held at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery and included heartfelt speeches, a wreath laying, a rifle salute, and a proclamation from Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter.
Organizers say at least three local WWII veterans attended today's ceremony with several dozen family members of veterans who have since passed away.
"They really experienced the hardships of the Great Depression then on to a unprecedented war around the world," said James Earp, a veteran and director of the Veterans Cemetery. "There was a mentality of can-do. They not only went out to fight the wars on the foreign battlefields but also to ensure our nations success by factory work by expediting technologies of aircraft and weapons."
"We just recently had a young man pass away who was 102 that served in WWII so the legacy was established and we have to continue it and it's important that we don't forget them," said Phil Hawkins, retired veteran outreach volunteer.
WWII veterans, families honor the Spirit of '45
Behind the podium, there were several large photos of some of our hometown veterans.
If you have a WWII veteran in your family and would like their photo included, contact the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery.
For information about the Wall of Honor Project please visit Keep the Spirit of '45 Alive! online. Information found here can assist you with having the photo of your loved one as part of the World War II Wall of Honor to be displayed on the National Mall in August-September 2020.