L-r: All smiles and enthusiasm, Allison Sica and Bethany Kelley form
a wives' team to support the fund-raising mission of the 15K Military
March at Presque Isle last year.
1987 to 1993, Cortes has a well-earned understanding of a veteran’s
psychological mindset. “Our American Legion in Millcreek is involved
comprehensively in the mission of the American Legion in the
community, but we are especially committed to veterans affairs and the
heroes to hometown duty.
“We provide a welcome for veterans returning home by being at
the airport and escorting them home,” he explains. “A contingent of
American Legion Riders will form a cavalcade of motorcycles to lead
the veteran home as a public display of recognition.”
Sometimes the welcome back to Erie from the Pittsburgh airport
involves many local legions providing a motorcycle escort, in shifts, all
along I-79.
“This is a tremendous way for all of us to show our respect to those
who have given so much for our freedom,” Cortes says.
He smiles as he recalls those special “welcome homes” that were
surprises. “We gather at the airport and, when the vet walks through
the gate, we stand in applause then each of us, in turn, shakes the vet’s
hand and offers our thanks for his or her service to our great country.
It’s a truly moving experience.”
He also remembers the incredible sight of American flags draped
across overpasses on I-79 south of Erie as a special salute to returning
vets. “Local firefighters get in on the action for these,” Cortes laughs.
“We welcome their skill in getting this patriotic display in place.”
Under the direction of Dennis Myers, who is also the legion’s
chaplain, the Millcreek American Legion color guard marches in
parades as a part of the legion’s presence along with the motorcycle
riders. Proudly astride his gray and white 2006 Honda Shadow, Cortes
joins other riders who gathered for Millcreek’s July 4th parade to
honor our country’s history.
An annual Memorial Day service is performed for the public by the
Millcreek American Legion at the post that involves placing wreaths
outside in memory of veterans. “Various organizations, such as our
fire department, local politicians, and the McDowell ROTC, place
wreaths,” Cortes explains.
Before the service, members have visited cemeteries to place
American flags across the grounds. It’s always a poignant moment
for Cortes when they arrive at Gates of Heaven. “My cousin, Staff
Sergeant Victor Cortes III, who was killed in Iraq in 2005 is buried
here,” Cortes solemnly remembers. “He will be one of the fallen
heroes honored at this year’s 15K with a memorial at one of the
kilometer posts.”
Cortes also appreciates that American Legion members fly the
colors and execute gun salutes at veterans’ funerals.
Flag Day, June 14, offers another opportunity for the legion to be
involved with the community.
“We conduct a ceremony that explains how the American flag is
honored and how our flag is disposed of properly,” Cortes notes,
honored to be able to participate in this formal observance of our
freedom and respect for our flag.
An annual oratorical contest is conducted where high school
students compete for cash prizes and scholarships by speaking on
issues significant to our Constitution and its amendments.
“The contest begins at local posts,” explains Cortes, “then advances
to regional and county levels, then on to western section, state, and
national competitions.”
Each year, the Millcreek Legion riders honor the service of a fallen
comrade by awarding the Ken VanGiesen Memorial Scholarship to a
McDowell Junior ROTC senior. At the Superintendent’s Review this
past May, Cortes proudly awarded this scholarship to Cadets Nickolas
Kane, Addison Blicha, and Caleb Donaldson.
Ready for a 15K? Lace up your walking shoes, snag some friends,
furl your American flag, and head on out to Presque Isle Sunday,
Sept. 11, at 2 p.m. to support our service men and women, past and
present, who selflessly serve our great nation. n
Millcreek | Fall 2016 | icmags.com 69