Peggy Billhartz and Phil Menkhaus pose behind a bench at Whispering Pines of Clinton County that was donated by the Catholic War Veterans and Auxiliary of the United States of America. Photos by Matt Wilson A busy day at Whispering Pines of Clinton County on Sunday, Oct. 11, featured the Hunter Prayer Service and a bench dedication.
The bench dedication happened following the prayer service. The bench is located by the flagpole and memorial bricks and was donated by Catholic War Veterans and Auxiliary (CWV/A) of the United States of America.
The inscription reads "Catholic War Veterans and Auxiliary of the USA, for God, for country, for home."
Since the conclusion of World War I, America faced threats from political movements aiming to undermine Christianity, known as the "Ism" movement. Despite the presence of the Knights of Columbus, a lay organization supporting Catholic soldiers, there was no specific veterans' group representing Catholic servicemen and women.
Responding to Pope Pius XI's warning against the dangers of these movements, Reverend Edward J. Higgins, a former Army chaplain, recognized the need for an organized Catholic veterans' group. With support from CWV's first National Commander John M. Dealy, the Catholic War Veterans of the United States was incorporated in New York on May 19, 1935.
Deacon Glen Netemeyer speaks during the Hunter Prayer Service at Whispering Pines of Clinton County. Father Higgins, motivated by the Pope's call to action, journeyed to Rome in May 1935 and received a private audience with Pope Pius XI. The Holy Father blessed the organization and its flags, expressing his support for its mission. He presented Father Higgins with an autographed photograph, encouraging members to continue their efforts in defending democracy.
Over the years, Catholic War Veterans gained recognition, officially becoming a veterans organization in July 1940 and receiving a congressional charter on Aug. 17, 1984, under President Ronald Reagan. In April 2021, the organization acknowledged the significant support of its Auxiliary and began operating under the name "The Catholic War Veterans and Auxiliary of the United States."
Hutch Arentsen does a reading from the Canticle of Creation according to Francis of Assisi during the Hunter Prayer Service at Whispering Pines of Clinton County. Throughout its history, the Catholic War Veterans have remained committed to serving God, country and home, embodying the spirit of catholic action and defending the principles of democracy.
The Catholic War Veterans and Auxiliary of the USA advocate for and support all veterans, their families, and our communities through fellowship, charitable activities, and veteran services.
Because Whispering Pines of Clinton County welcomes veterans, military, first responders, special needs groups, seniors, conservation, youth, and religious organizations, CWV/A Post 1780 thought providing the bench for all to use was a fitting use of their funds.
It is the third bench at Whispering Pines.
The first bench was dedicated to longtime journalist Bryan Hunt, who passed away Aug. 28, 2024. The inscription reads "Family man, journalist, community advocate and a role model."
"There is no one who has been so passionate about putting Whispering Pines of Clinton County in a good light and covering all of the events and stories that we have had out here," Greg Riechman said.
His wife and son were moved by Whispering Pines of Clinton County raising money to have the bench in honor of Hunt. The bench is by the pond at Whispering Pines.
"He was an inspiration to Clinton County and may he rest in peace," Riechman said.
The second bench was donated by Bob and Angie Zahn and family. The inscription reads "Love, honor and respect to all who made Whispering Pines of Clinton County real." The bench is on the far side by the exit.
The Hunter Prayer service was chaired by Jim Kues. The church band included Glen and Geralyn Kruep, Marge and Mike Detmer, and Wayne Winkeler. "Taps" was played by Hope Watts of Carlyle. Carl Becker, the owner of Whispering Pines of Clinton County, spoke about the history, mission and plans for the property. Illinois Conservation Department officer Jacob Ferrell talked about hunter safety and preparation for a hunt.
Kues spoke about bow hunting blinds for veterans and handicap hunters.
Deacon Glen Netemeyer gave opening remarks about nature. Helen Renschen, Jenna Rehkeper, Scout Arentsen and Hutch Arentsen gave readings.
