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World War II vet proudly raises flag at new park
(by Sue Reid - November 11, 2010)
World War II vet proudly raises flag at new park
By SUE REID
It is with great pride that Solon resident Michael A. Nero takes part in the flag-raising ceremony today (Nov. 11) in honor of Veterans Day at the new veterans memorial park, he said.
At age 88, the World War II veteran and over-40-year member of Solon Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1863 is no stranger to flag-raising ceremonies. In fact, for the past 25 years, he has raised the flag for Kenston High School football games and also has done so in the past at Solon High School.
Ceremonies such as the Veterans Day celebration in Solon, "instills pride in the services," Mr. Nero said.
"I feel good about it," he said. "I think it's an honor. We have to keep doing it so young people understand what it's all about."
In addition to flag-raising ceremonies, Mr. Nero has spoken over the years to students in Solon, Hudson and the surrounding areas about the war. A member of the U.S. Navy amphibious force, Mr. Nero fought in Normandy and received medals and written commendations. He entered the service in 1942 and served for four years.
An active member of the VFW, Mr. Nero served as commander three times. The retired cement contractor said that the ranks of his fellow World War II vets are thinner. "Guys are dying all the time," he said.
Mr. Nero was also the commander and active member for over 35 years of the Cooties, which was formed in 1921 and evolved from the VFW. The group administers to the needs of wounded and bedridden comrades and their families. Our motto was, 'Keep 'em smiling in beds of white,'" he said.
His desire to help others comes from his own thankfulness for the life he has been given, he said. "I'm thankful I have my health," said Mr. Nero, who does all his own yard work at his Aurora Road (Route 43) home and takes just a low dosage of high-blood-pressure medication. "I see people with no legs, and you have to be compassionate and talk to them," he said.
His compassion runs deep throughout the Solon Senior Center, where he is an active member and avid volunteer.
"You have to keep active and do things," Mr. Nero said. "Seniors can't just sit and watch television."
Senior Center Director Jill Frankel said Mr. Nero's enthusiasm for everything he does is "contagious."
"As we have started new activities, he has jumped right in," Ms. Frankel said. "We know we can count on Mike to be there with his smile and positive attitude. He is always willing to share a story or play a tune on the piano."
During the holidays, Mr. Nero also plays the role of Santa Claus and estimates he gets about 500 hugs a season.
"I get hugs more then anything," he said.
In addition to exercising regularly, Mr. Nero plays golf twice a week at Grantwood Golf Course and bowls. He is also a member of the Act II singers, the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic War Veterans. A member of St. Monica's Church in Garfield Heights, Mr. Nero has been widowed since 1973. He and his wife have six children, 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. The oldest of eight children to Italian immigrant parents, Mr. Nero said five of his siblings are still living.
"I love my family and try to keep in touch," said Mr. Nero of those who live in other states. "Sometimes they don't call, but you have to instigate the call."
Ms. Frankel said that Mr. Nero is an example of "how staying active and engaged can improve both physical and mental health."
Mr. Nero's commitment to our country also shines through in all that he does, Ms. Frankel said.
"He speaks with pride of his service, VFW membership and the honor guard," Ms. Frankel said. "You can be sure when there is a ceremonial flag raising, Mike will be there."
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