"Honor to the soldier, and sailor everywhere, who bravely bears his country's cause. Honor also to the citizen who cares for his brother in the field, and serves, as he best can, the same cause."
Students invite any relative or friend who served during WWII or helped on the home front. The veterans are not required to speak or do anything that makes them uncomfortable. The day is designed to show our appreciation and say “thank you.” They only have to sit back and enjoy the show.
In 2001, 21 honorees attended the innaugral Tribute, and it has grown in attendance. Along with some returning guests, new honorees are invited to attend the Tribute by their grandchildren and in some cases by veterans who have previously attended the Tribute. In 2007, 49 honorees were in attendance.
It is exciting watching and listening to the veterans inteact with one another. Some of them know one another because they are from the Lawrence Township and Indianpolis area.
They also discovered they returned to the U.S. aboard the Gen. J.C. Breckinridge on the same day. A new friendship was formed.