Carillon Bells to Ring Today for Armistice Anniversary

Today at 11 a.m., MSU's carillon bells will join those around the world in marking the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I. According to MSU, the event is "in celebration of the Inauguration of Peace Carillon at Park Abbey in Leuven, Belgium," and "carillonneurs around the world will play 'A Sacred Suite,' a triptych on Georgian themes" by Geert D'hollander.

The concert will occur on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, 100 years since the armistice of the First World War.

On Friday, the City of East Lansing held its annual observance of Veterans' Day at the Hannah Community Center. The event began with a few words from Deputy City Manager Tim Dempsey and continued with formal laying of wreaths.

Dodie Neller, the mother of the head of the highest-ranking Marine Corps officer, attended the event. General Robert B. Neller, the 37th Commandant of the Marine Corps, grew up in East Lansing and graduated from East Lansing High School in 1971. His mother Dodie is well known around town through her work as a real estate agent.

Below: Maj. Bert Reinink and Dodie Neller

Also in attendance were two representatives of the Marines, numerous City staff members, and local residents, including veterans and those whose families have served in the military.

Members of the ELPD who have served in the military were also in attendance and were recognized for their service. The photo below shows, from left in the front row, Maj. Bert Reinink, an unnamed marine, ELPD's Ofc. Staci Sterner, Capt. Chad Connelly, Lt. Scot Sexton, Sgt. Chad Pride, Det. Tony Fuller, and in the back, Ofc. Chris Shadduck and Ofc. Dan Brown.

One wreath was laid at the memorial dedicated to U.S. Marine Corps Reserve 2^nd Lt. Sherrod E. Skinner, Jr. According to material provided by the City, Skinner “received the Medal of Honor posthumously for bravery exhibited during the Korean War.” (Read more.)

The second wreath was laid at the City’s Veterans Monument, honoring all local veterans and memorializing those who lost their lives while serving the nation. A gathering with refreshments took place in the community center after the ceremony.

All are welcome to attend the carillon concert today at 11 a.m.

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