SOLON — Each year the Solon High School football teams take a little time to honor all veterans who have served, and those serving today with Armed Forces Night/Military Appreciation Night. During the pregame ceremonies the American Legion Stinocher Post 460’s color guard was supplemented by members of the Iowa Army National Guard and United States Space Force while the sophomore football team carried a large American Flag under the guidance of National Guard veteran Ron Meyer.
Each year an Honored Veteran of the Game is recognized, with this year’s honoree being Jim Leland.
Leland served in the United States Air Force with 2-1/2 years in Japan during the Korean War assigned to the Base Legal Office. He served with the Minnesota Air National Guard following his active duty while earning a degree from Mankato State College. In 1962 Leland moved to Solon and began teaching industrial arts and drivers education at the Solon High School.
He is a 69-year member of the American Legion, served twice as Post Commander, and is a 60-year member of the Color Guard. He has served as the Regional First District Commander and was the State Historian and State Vice-Commander.
In addition to his Legion duties, Leland is a charter member of the Solon Optimist Club, one of the founding fathers of Solon Beef Days, has served on several local and professional boards, and is a current member of the Board of Directors for the Solon Nursing Care Center.
During halftime veterans (including from Central Clinton-DeWitt) were invited to march onto the field behind their service flag while the band played a musical salute branch by branch.
Military Appreciation Night was also held Tuesday, Sept. 12 during the Solon vs. Center Point-Urbana volleyball matches.
Jim Leland, a Korean War veteran of the United States Air Force, and 69-year member of the American Legion was honored as this year’s Veteran of the Game on Armed Forces Night Friday, Sept. 8. Leland was escorted by his daughter Kerry.