BENTONVILLE — Lyle Muetzell stood alone as others around him were leaving Saturday’s Veterans Day program on the Bentonville square.
Moments earlier, Muetzell, who served in the Navy during World War II, had heard U.S. Sen. John McCain express his gratitude to all active duty personnel and veterans that served in the military.
However, McCain, who also served in the Navy and was a prisoner or war during the Vietnam War, took a few moments to honor those from what he called the “greatest generation” or the ones that served during World War II.
“I felt deeply honored,” Muetzell said of the honor and recognition from McCain.
Muetzell said it was especially touching since three of his “buddies” have died in the last several days.
“They are putting us down each day,” Muetzell said.
Muetzell, while wiping away tears, said he feels like Saturday’s program is a fitting way to recognize and remember the people who have sacrificed so much to defend the country.
“It was just a good program,” Muetzell said.
McCain was the featured speaker at the Veterans Day program hosted by Walmart.
“Thank you for your service,” McCain said. “Thank you for your dedication.”
McCain told the World War II veterans not only do they continue to inspire him but the entire country.
The Arizona Republican told the crowd today’s military men and women have sacrificed a great deal in Iraq and Afghanistan, but he was proud people may disagree about the war, but still “honor and support the service of our brave Americans.”
McCain said Americans began wearing bracelets to honor and recognize prisoners of war. He still wears a bracelet to honor Matthew Stanley, who was killed in combat in 2006 in Iraq. Stanley’s mother gave McCain the bracelet during a town hall event in 2007 in New Hampshire.
McCain praised Walmart and other programs for supporting veterans and especially those that hire veterans.
He also praised the retailer for its response in helping victims in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy and other disasters.
McCain told the crowd there will continue to be dangers throughout the world and “Americans will again have to bear the burdens that only the brave can endure.”
Third District Rep. Steve Womack, R-Rogers, told the crowd he was honored to be there to personally thank McCain for his service to the country.
“Senator, what you have given your country puts you in rare company,” Womack said. “Your country is grateful for your service.
Womack also thanked Walmart for its continued support of not only the active duty military, but the retailer’s support of veterans.
U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Mick Kicklighter, director of the Vietnam War Commemoration, thanked Walmart for it support of veterans issues, but especially for helping to honor Vietnam veterans as part of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War.
Kicklighter presented Bill Simon, president and CEO of Walmart U.S., with one of the flags that will be flown at each Walmart in the country to honor veterans of the Vietnam War.
“I’m proud to be part of a company that supports active duty and veterans in every way we can,” Simon said.
Simon said it’s a legacy that dates back to Sam Walton.
Simon said he believes those men and women returning from Iraq and Afghanistan will assist in the next growth phase of the country. “We desperately need that in our economy and country,” Simon said.
Simon presented McCain with a replica of Sam Walton’s Ford pickup.