LOCAL VETERANS OBSERVE V-E DAY, OPENING OF HOME

Despite predictions of clouds and showers, the sun shone brightly on hundreds who gathered at the Cape Girardeau Veterans Home to remember the tragedy of World War II and the happiness of the home's dedication.

The commemoration ceremony combined both events since today is the 50th anniversary of the war's end in Europe and Friday the fifth anniversary of the Veterans Home's dedication.

Members of all military branches helped with the ceremony, carrying flags as they marched to various service songs. The 135th Army Band of Springfield played "God Bless America" and other patriotic songs as many in the crowd stood and saluted.

Former KFVS-TV executive Don McNeely was master of ceremonies, and Secretary of State Bekki Cook was first to give a speech. She recognized the spouses of World War II veterans -- the women who stayed behind, working in munitions factories, raising victory gardens and using ration stamps.

Cook became teary-eyed as she spoke about those who raised families alone, living through years of struggle and sacrifice.

After the ceremony, Cook explained she had been moved by a story recounted in church earlier in the day. A fellow parishioner told of how she was pregnant when her husband was shipped off to war. The expectant mother had been unable to say good-bye, but fortunately her husband returned after the baby's birth.

"I'm going to have to learn how to deal with these military ceremonies better," Cook said.

Maj. Gen. Raymond Pendergrass, adjutant general of the Missouri Army National Guard, had a different message for the crowd. A Korean conflict veteran, Pendergrass said Americans should remember the mistakes made in World War II.

He said the country had refused to face the reality of the war, choosing to remain isolated prior to Pearl Harbor's bombing by the Japanese. With more up-to-date technology and training, there would have been fewer American casualties.

Pendergrass believes the U.S. military is in danger again.

"As we remember the sacrifices of the men and women who served, we need to keep an eye to the future," he said. "We should maintain a strong force and be ready when we see another enemy at our door."

The ceremony ended with a prayer for God's blessing on the veterans who gallantly fought to keep their country free and those who didn't return home.