SALINA, KAN. - It was a picture perfect day in Salina to honor veterans on Wednesday. One veteran offered his thoughts and unique perspective on why we should remember and honor service.
Hundreds turned out for the remembrance to honor veterans, hosted by the American Legion Post 62.
Dan Pestinger, Vietnam Veteran who served with the 12th Marine Regiment in 1967 and 1968, said it was not just the perfect weather that made the day one to remember.
"I was up on the DMZ when I left there," said Pestinger about his service in the 60's. "We left there in a C-130 with dead and wounded."
"Now, you take Israel. Every man or woman, when they turn 18, they do two years of service. Whether it's in the military or whether it's police or some special unit. But everybody has to serve two years."
"The service... it made me think a lot more about living," said Pestinger. "And I can tell you I've never drawn a penny of unemployment. Not one penny and I've traveled the whole world for the VFW. I've been all over."
As a VFW member of more than 55 years, Pestinger hopes everyone takes a moment this week to recall why service matters.
"Just remember how important this is. Even today," said Petinger.
Pestinger, who was honored for helping veterans with a quilt and a certificate says the recognition is good to have on the day to remember. But, he says, it's about service.
"I do what I do because it's the right thing to do," said Pestinger. "We have to remember those that have given to our country."
