Sharing a mutual respect

From a patriotic and service-oriented family, Carolyn Welschmeyer joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1967 to see the world and follow in the family's footsteps.

It was a challenging time. But once past boot camp, her MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) as a radio repairman became like any other job, she said.

Except, putting on her tool belt around her military uniform meant that Lance Cpl. Welschmeyer was a veteran, like her father, uncles and brothers before her. And just like her son, who is commander of the recently deployed U.S. Army Reserve 428th Transportation Company.

So Welschmeyer, 61, was grateful to be among family, veterans and Missouri National Guard soldiers Thursday at Villa Marie Nursing Facility.

"It's nice to be able to participate with other veterans," Welschmeyer said. "It reinforces my belief that Veterans Day is an important day."

For the second year, Sgt. 1st Class Dan Hopkins, non-commissioned officer in charge of the Guard's 229th Multifunctional Medical Battalion, visited the residents along with other soldiers.

"We get a lot out of it, too - even on our day off, our own holiday," Hopkins said. "It's an awesome experience to be in the presence of these American heroes."