The most dedicated volunteers in the county

by Gladys Shay
| May 23, 2012 7:57 AM

United Veterans of the Flathead County are among most dedicated volunteers in the county. Military honors for any veteran are performed by United Veterans. Honor guard is composed of captain of the guard, flag bearers, firing squad and a bugler with 12 to 15 members participating. Local National Guard Honor Guard contingent folds and presents the flag. Local mortuaries make arrangements at the request of families.

There were services held for 101 veterans during 2011. United Veterans are grateful to provide this service. They believe every veteran deserves to be honored for his or her commitment to and sacrifice for freedom for all.

Current membership of 25 members represent Veterans of Foreign Wars, Marine Corps League, American Legion, Disabled American Veterans and their auxiliaries and the National Guard. These units pay annual dues to the United Veterans to cover their members. Any member of any unit may attend sessions and become an Honor Guard member.

United Guard volunteers perform at flag raising ceremonies, parades and other events. It is a 501(c) 3 non-profit charitable organization and accepts donations for services performed. These funds enable United Veterans to provide uniform jackets, gloves and ascots for their Honor Guard. Each member provides a white shirt embroidered with logos, black pants, black shoes and a military uniform hat.

Anyone interested in joining the Honor Guard may contact Jim Heibert at 862-4182. United Veterans is always looking for a few good men and women to increase their ranks.

Memorial Day observances Monday, May 28, will be conducted by United Veterans. Their busy schedule commences at 10:30 a.m. at Glacier Memorial Gardens and concludes at 3:30 p.m. at the Veterans’ Home Cemetery.

Complete schedule is printed in a separate story.

Thanks once again to Sue Haverfield, Honor Guard member for providing Memorial Day and United Veterans of the Flathead County information.

Gladys Shay is a longtime resident and columnist for the Hungry Horse News.