My great uncle, George Unmacht, (grandfather’s brother) was a colonel in World War II. We have a family photo of him being recognized by President Harry Truman in a White House ceremony in June 1947. He is the most decorated veteran in our family. Colonel Unmacht has gravestones in Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C.; Linwood Cemetery in his hometown of Dubuque, Iowa; and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Hawaii where he is buried. I never met my great uncle as he died before I was born; I have personally visited all three gravestones.
Stories passed on to his family note that he—like countless individuals before and after him—was a proud veteran who committed his life to serving his country in the military.
We rightfully respect and value our veterans each day, however, on Veterans Day this November we want to recognize and extend our heartfelt thanks to all men and women who have served or are serving in the military. Beyond their military service, many of these same men and women have continued to contribute to public service through involvement in city government as elected officials or staff.
It is with honor and respect on behalf of the League of Minnesota Cities Board of Directors and staff that I want to express our gratitude to all former and current members of our military for your dedication and commitment to this country. I am very proud of my great uncle for his service and of all veterans who deserve special recognition on this day and every day.
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| LMC Executive Director David Unmacht |
