More than 60 Color Bearer Flags rustled in that wind, as they made an aisle of fl ags for National President Cortina Barnes to pass through with her escort and mother, Corrine Willis. Following them were 31 Department Presidents and many Junior Girls. Approximately 100 Ladies Auxiliary and VFW members crossed the harbor waters to attend the ceremony, and many more island visitors stopped to watch, several from other countries.
“Located on the small, 12-acre island stands the most recognizable symbol of freedom in the world,” said VFW Commander-in-Chief Richard Eubank in his keynote address. “A gift of friendship from the French, Lady Liberty’s story is one of change. Gifted to the United States following the Civil War and the abolition of slavery, the United States was a living, breathing demonstration that democracy was a viable form of government.”
Eubank said that the statue was at the time a bold symbol of liberty poised on the eastern shore “representing a progressive form of government eager to welcome all those in pursuit of life, liberty and happiness.” That progressive idea became one nation under God. Yet still, there are those who would wish to destroy it. “I have news for them,” Eubank declared. “With our unity and common beliefs in the values that have made the United States the greatest nation on earth, we will overcome those seeking to dim the light of liberty. The light is as bright today as it was the day she was dedicated.” President Barnes presented this
year’s gift of $3,000 to the national monument, which the Park Service will use to create more exhibits on the grounds of the island. This will be especially important in the coming months, since the base of the statue will be closed for security updates for several months, explained
Corrine Willis, right, escorts her daughter, National President Cortina Barnes, down an aisle of fl ags at the start of the ceremony.
JANUARY 2011 13
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