Kotecki is a storyteller, musician and historian. For the past decade Kotecki has told the history of the Civil War through music. He not only sings songs significant to the war but also educates audiences. Rogers explains the history of the melodies and lyrics which give a strong sense of the poetry and eloquence of this critical time in history.

Music has always been part of Kotecki’s life. He began as a student of classical piano. His musical background expanded to include rock bands and experience as a church keyboardist.

Kotecki has a direct familial link to the Civil War. His great grandfather served with the 82nd Indiana Infantry as part of the army that took Chattanooga, Atlanta, and then marched to the sea with General Sherman. This sparked his interest in the music of the Civil War.

In 1919 President Woodrow Wilson declared Nov. 11th as Armistice Day in order to honor the soldiers of World War I which at the time, people believed it was the last war. As more wars occurred, however, the name was changed to Veteran’s Day so all veterans would be included.

The Oak Park Arms is a rental retirement community which provides independent and assisted living apartments and a full schedule of activities and services. Furnished apartments are also available for a short-term stay – a weekend, a week, a month or longer.

The event is free and open to the public. Call Jill Wagner at 708-386-4040.

Students from Trinity High School have been interviewing Oak Park Arms’ residents and writing their stories. A wall titled, “A Tribute to Our Soldiers” will be on display with a map, bios and strings to each veteran’s photo.

Veterans from the staff at Oak Park Arms will present the flag in a color guard. A patriotic program will follow featuring Pam Turlow singing “The Star Spangled Banner,” Dr. Bob Beiter playing “God Bless America” on tenor sax, and the Oak Park Arms Chorus singing “America, the Beautiful.”

After the official program, a reception will take place in the lounge, while the Mills Orchestra will play Sousa marches.

The Oak Park Arms is a rental retirement community which provides independent and assisted living apartments and a full schedule of activities and services. Furnished apartments are also available for a short-term stay – a weekend, a week, a month or longer.

The event is free and open to the public. Call Jill Wagner at 708-386-4040 or visit http://www.oakparkarms.com.