Kevin Winters was the keynote speaker at the annual Memorial Day Ceremony at Veterans Park in Port Clinton, paying homage to all of the veterans who had lost their lives in service to the United States. Sgt. Bert Fall was the Master of Ceremonies, and the Port Clinton High School Band provided a stirring rendition of the Armed Forces Medley, a collection of the official marching songs of the United States Armed Forces: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard. (Photo by D’Arcy Egan)

BY D’ARCY EGAN

A holiday crowd in Port Clinton gave a rousing salute to its many veterans on Memorial Day, with Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2480, American legion Post 113 and Amvets Post 10 appreciating the accolades of a job well done.

Kevin Winters was the keynote speaker on Monday morning, even though he had never served in the armed forces.

“I love the history of our armed forces, and have so much respect for our military,” Winters told the crowd. “I’ve always been a student of U.S. military history, and even as youngster have had great respect for our military and the many veterans.”

When Winters asked the members of VFW Post 2480 a few years ago if he could carry the American flag in a 5K race, its members were impressed with his passion for the military and its long and storied history.

“I was extremely honored when I was asked if I would like to become a social member of VFW Post 2480,” he remembered. “When they asked if I would like to join their Honor Guard, and serve with my heroes, I was overwhelmed. I’ve been so proud of being allowed to stand with my heroes.”

The Port Clinton High School Bad performed a stirring rendition of the Armed Forces Medley, a collection of the official marching songs of the United States Armed Forces: Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard. Local artist Rosemary Schramm honored the military’s Canadian brethren, performing “Oh, Canada” for the enthusiastic crowd.