Kaskaskia College held its annual Enduring Freedom Celebration on Tuesday, honoring local veterans. Veterans, students, faculty, and community members were able to enjoy a complimentary breakfast before the main program in the Jane Knight Auditorium, which recognized local veteran organizations and members of each branch of the military.
Each year, the college gives a folded flag to recognize an individual who has done work to honor the United States and veterans. This year, the flag was awarded to Julius “Rookie” Kampwerth, a member of the Beckemeyer American Legion Honor guard. College president George Evans noted Kampwerth’s contributions include building wheelchair ramps for disabled veterans, volunteering time at St. Dominic’s Church, local schools, and serving in the honor guard to help honor veterans at funerals and at events such as the Enduring Freedom Celebration.
This year’s guest speaker was Colonel Jason B. “Caesar” Wolff, Chief of the Air Transportation Division at Headquarters Air Mobility Command at Scott Air Force Base. Wolff was commissioned through Officer Training School in 2001. He has remained in the military since and has been deployed in support of numerous major operations. Wolff spoke to the audience about the American military as a source of hope for those in need of protection.
The national anthem was performed by KC students Grace Hummel, Layla Gray, Hannah DeLao, Andolini Gray, and Cherokee Ray. Invocation and Benediction were given by Nathaniel Marlow. The presentation of flags and flag folding ceremony were done by the Beckemeyer American Legion Post #1227 Honor Guard.
Colonel Jason Wolff speaks to the audience. Photo by Austin Williams.
Honor guard members hold the American flag on stage during the flag folding ceremony. Photo by Austin Williams.
KC students perform the national anthem. Photo by Austin Williams.
