Veterans in Rio Blanco County were honored in Rangely and Meeker last weekend in recognition of Veterans Day, Sunday, Nov. 11.
Alliance Energy honored Rangely veterans and their families with a barbecue at the Elks Lodge last Friday, followed by cake and ice cream. Those attending included 88-year-old retired carrier pilot George Smitman, a veteran of World War II and the Korean War, who flew 25 different aircraft during his service from 1942-1965.
Girl Scouts sang the National Anthem on the courthouse lawn as RBC Veteran Officer Joe Dungan raised the flags.
V.F.W. Post 5483 members formed the color guard and a 21-gun salute before the Ladies Auxiliary performed a ceremony to remember and honor prisoners of war (POWs) and those still missing in action (MIA).
Members of the Meeker Chamber of Commerce served lunch to many veterans and their families following the ceremony last Sunday.