Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4714 hosted a compelling program Nov. 11 in observance of Veterans Day at the Main Street and Laubach Avenue post.

A highlight of the evening was when Wassyl Hewko, 94, entered the room via a wheelchair and approached the white cloth-covered POW/MIA table to light a candle. The large audience present gave Hewko a standing ovation, breaking the silence in the room.

Hewko, a U.S. Navy sailor, was one of five brothers who served in World War II. Brothers Alex, Navy; Ben, Navy; John, Navy, and Pete, Marines, are deceased.

The empty chair at the POW/MIA table is a reminder of the military persons who have not returned. Symbols such as the inverted glass, rose, salt, slice of lemon, Bible and yellow ribbon all serve as reminders of those who did not come back.

Senior Vice Commander Jonathan Wolfer offered a challenge to NFL players to not take a knee during the honoring of the flag. Among the places Wolfer said they should take a knee included monuments in Washington, D.C.

In giving each example, Wolfer said, “I dare you.”

State Rep. Zach Mako, R-183rd, who served in Afghanistan as a helicopter pilot, was an event speaker. He thanked the veterans for their service, adding he is ever mindful of the large numbers of those missing in action.

Post Commander Larry Schlittler held roll call, reading the names of each of the 17 men, and the branch of military they served, in attendance.

Post members also visited three nursing homes during the week to meet with the veterans living there.