MASON CITY — Mayor Bill Schickel presented the official Mayor’s Proclamation and delivered remarks at Mason City’s 104th Annual Veterans Day Celebration Tuesday in Central Park. The event, organized by the Mason City Veterans Memorial Association, is one of the longest-running continuous Veterans Day observances in Iowa.
The Mayor’s theme this year—“Honoring Those Who Never Stop Serving”—paid tribute to veterans who continue to strengthen their communities long after their military service ends.
Schickel highlighted the Mason City Honor Guard as an example of that enduring commitment. The Honor Guard recently received the Community Service Award from the Mason City Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution for their exceptional volunteer service.
“Under the leadership of Commander Charlie West, the Honor Guard performs military rites not just at ceremonies like today’s, but at more than 60 funerals each year,” the Mayor said. “They serve without fanfare, without complaint—in the same way they once served our country. They are the people who keep the foundation of our community strong.”
The Mayor encouraged citizens to follow the veterans’ example of service. “As we gather in this historic park—surrounded by monuments and memories—let us renew our own commitment to serve others,” he said.