Veterans groups hold special events

Three veterans organizations either have held or plan to hold special events in Cape Girardeau.

Each of the events is an opportunity to hear oft-told stories once again, to renew old friendships and to make new ones and to pay special tribute to those who served their country in times of war and peace.

Members of the U.S. Army 6th Ranger Infantry Battalion -- plus several POWs rescued from a Japanese prison camp during World War II -- recently got together.

Veterans who were part of the Flying Indians -- a group of Navy pilots from World War II who started out as students at Southeast Missouri State University -- also got together recently and are seeking to contact others from the group.

The biggest group, the Cpl. Mason O. Yarbrough Detachment No. 1081 of the Marine Corps League, is planning to celebrate the Marine Corps' 227th birthday anniversary on Nov. 9. As many as 500 people are expected to attend the birthday ball, including Lt. Gen. Charles Pitman as the keynote speaker.

We salute all veterans organizations who constantly remind us of their loyal service to our nation.