Veteran’s Day Celebration in Midvale, Idaho
Originally Posted: November 17, 2023|Midvale, Veteran’s Day
On Thursday November 9 th in the flag-waiving community of Midvale, Idaho, citizens of numerous surrounding 
towns gathered to celebrate Veterans Day at one of the most patriotic annual programs this side of the Sawtooth Mountains. The town folk have friendly faces and generational patriotism. They love their children and are eager to honor any veteran that may have the
good fortune to drive into their town.
The celebration began with a rat-a-tat-tat drumbeat, which marched a platoon of children into a gym plastered with red, white, and blue. Smiles beamed on the faces of each proud little soldier as they anticipated the forthcoming program, which has become an historic
mainstay and tradition of the Midvale community. Many of the children were dressed in the uniforms of their mother, father, or grandfather and they held their heads high, walking tall with the discipline of a genuine soldier. They sang songs such as, “God Bless America,” “Yankee Doodle,” and “Thank a Vet,” which stirred the hearts of the veterans seated before them.
Veterans are the folks who have answered the call to fight and defend the Constitution of these great United States from all enemies foreign and domestic. They have dedicated their youth to the cause of freedom for all Americans. Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Timothy Slemp of Meridian, ID, addressed today’s changing culture, the divergent political opinions, and the current fiscal calamity that will affect future generations; many in the audience nodded agreement that change will only come when patriotic folks get involved to affect a change in the direction this country is heading. “Use your hands and feet and voice and vote to support our veterans,” Lt. Col. (Ret) Slemp exhorted the audience.
What is it about this day that such an honor be poured out by the youngest generation in this town? The guest speaker, Lt. Col. (Ret) Slemp addressed this question when he quoted President John F. Kennedy’s famous words in his closing remarks, “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.”
The patriotism and gratitude displayed throughout the Midvale Veterans Day Program on this special day is a testament to the character of Midvale, even down to the youngest of its citizens. Most would agree that the tradition of honoring and respecting our Veterans is both noble and invaluable. The Nation may simply not exist as we know had it not been for their service and sacrifice.