The Fair Oaks Ranch Rotary Club held a special salute to Veterans at its weekly luncheon on Wednesday, November 13th, at the Fair Oaks Ranch Country Club.  

Besides recognizing the 14 Club Rotarians who are veterans, the Club invited two local residents who are veterans of the War in the Pacific during World War II.  Commander R.W. Pratt, 97, a 29-year Navy veteran of both WW II and Korea, and U.S.M.C. Corporal D.G. (Mac) McWilliams, 94, who served from 1943-46, were introduced by Greg Buschmann, who has written magazine articles about both gentlemen.

The Honored Speaker for the event was U.S. Army Retired Major General James M. (Mike) Lyle, who focused his speech on a tribute to all veterans and their spouses for their service and sacrifice for our country.  The TMI Episcopal Color Guard from San Antonio presented a special posting of the colors.  The Rotarians recognized included Army veterans Tuffy Burton, Ralph Lehner, Greg Maxton, Jackson Moss, Charles Pearson, Jim Thompson (who also served in the Navy Reserve) and Army Reservist Garry Manitzas.  Air Force veterans included Bill Fusco, George Irving, Clifton Lewis and Jim Wade.  Scott Rubin and Gary Weigand served in the Navy while John Collins was in the Marines.