By KALEY CONNER

kconner@dailynews.net

WAKEENEY -- "America, America! God shed His grace on thee."

Though he walked with a cane, 94-year-old Henry Deines stood up tall as he belted out a medley of "America the Beautiful" and the national anthem.

As a veteran of World War II, Deines clearly understands the words he was singing. He joined the U.S. Army along with his five brothers, all of whom returned home safely when their tours of duty were completed.

"That's amazing," said Deines, a resident of WaKeeney.

The national anthem was sung as part of the annual Veterans Day services at the Kansas Veterans Cemetery in WaKeeney.

Light moisture and a cold breeze did little to dampen attendance at the morning event. Nearly 150 spectators gathered underneath a shelter house to pay their respects. Following the ceremony, a fire was lit for the proper disposal of more than 100 unserviceable American flags.

Deines also paused to pay respects to fellow soldiers. The only one of his brothers still surviving, three of his siblings now are buried in the cemetery.

Attendees also heard from Master Chief Jerry White, who retired in 1992 after a lengthy career with the U.S. Navy. At one point during the Vietnam War, he was listed as Missing In Action when he accidently was left with South Vietnamese troops near the Cambodia border.

"I knew where I was the whole time," said White, a resident of WaKeeney. "The Navy lost me, unfortunately."

White also was solemn as he discussed the importance of the holiday, and encouraged others to offer "a simple thank-you" to those who have fought for the nation.

"Today we honor those who have served and those who are still serving to defend the freedom of this great nation," White said. "All veterans have something in common: No matter what branch they were, they fought for your freedom."

It was an emotional day for many. Jana Hensley made the trip from Oakley to pay respects to her boyfriend, a Vietnam War veteran who died several years ago. Hensley said it's important for others to remember veterans' sacrifices and not just on the national holiday.

"They need to come to WaKeeney and look at this beautiful cemetery," she said through her tears after placing a single red rose near the grave.

The day also struck a sorrowful note for Deines, who buried one of his brothers in the cemetery one year ago to the day, he said.

During World War II, Deines spent two years stationed at Guadalcanal. During that time, he and his wife, Viola, communicated by letters as often as possible.

"I think some of them are still in the mail somewhere," he said with a chuckle.

The couple has three grown daughters, all of whom pursued a career in music. Deines credited the family talent to his wife, though he admitted he "likes to sing."

That was obvious during his performance Tuesday, which brought a few tears and was met with heartfelt applause as he finished the last verses.

"Oh say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave, o'er the land of the free and the home of the brave."