By Randy Kirby
Managing editor
Gov. Jay Nixon was one of several featured speakers at the third annual Military Appreciation Day ceremony, held Sunday afternoon at the Mathewson Exhibition Center on the Missouri State Fairgrounds. Also delivering a speech was Dr. Jon Hagler, Missouri Department of Agriculture director, as well as Ret. Col. Len Nevels, who recognized the contributions of the Tuskegee Airmen.
Singing the National Anthem was eight-year-old Alexa Mason, daughter of Capt. Paul and Sherri Mason. Also making an appearance at the Show-Me Salute to Veterans were 100-120 Patriot Guard Riders.
State Fair Director Mark Wolf delivered the shortest speech and also introduced the 2012 State Fair Commissioners to the capacity crowd.
Whiteman Air Force Base Brig. Gen. Thomas Bussiere, commanding general of the 509th Bomb Wing, also spoke to those attending.
Fort Leonard Wood provided live music through the 135th Army band, and also the Ft. Leonard Wood Joint Service Color Guard for the posting of the colors.
Members of Smith-Cotton High School JROTC read aloud the names of those Missouri servicemen and women who have lots their lives in the line of duty since 9/11 in a ‘Remembering Our Fallen in Missouri Tribute. The tribute included the ringing of a bell for each name, followed at the end by the playing of Taps.
Gov. Nixon, who presented several Governor’s Unit Citations during the ceremony, shook hands with members of ‘Remember the Fallen’ at the conclusion of the event. Photos by Randy Kirby, Sedalia News Journal.
