Veterans Day brings community together


AMENIA — There was a full crowd at Fountain Square Sunday morning, as residents gathered to show their appreciation of veterans in the community.

"We’re here to celebrate Veterans Day," said Sue Lopane, who added that her son was part of the Cub Scout pack that was there to be a part of the ceremony. "It’s important because veterans did a lot and we need to respect that and honor them."

For World War II veteran Joseph Piantino, that sentiment meant a lot.

"It’s a day to remember all of my buddies in the service and to keep in mind the ones that didn’t return from the war," he said. "I appreciate it [the public’s support], but there’s always a sadness because I look back at the ones who didn’t make it."

Although it’s difficult for those who didn’t experience war first-hand to completely understand Piantino’s feelings, there was an effort made to bring the younger generation into the day’s service and into contact with veterans. Cub Scout Pack 29, from Amenia, Wassaic and Millerton, was there to explain the meaning of the Pledge of Allegiance.

"I have them come out twice a year, on Memorial Day and Veterans Day, so we can get more and more involved," said Cub Master Christine Ford. "I think they need to know what a community is and about freedom and to show respect for our men and women in the service. I want them to be respectable boys when they get older."

The Scouts stood witness while Vice Commander Rick Butler Jr. of VFW Post 5444 in Amenia commenced with the program.

"America has a heritage of proud men and women who stand ready to fight for freedom, liberty and justice under law," he said. "That’s what this day is all about."

Amenia town Supervisor Janet Reagon spoke about what the holiday meant to her.

"Veterans Day is a celebration of our veterans. Not only did they go and fight and in some cases get wounded and in some cases lost their lives," she said, "those that survived came back and continued to give to their communities."

State Assemblyman Marc Molinaro told the audience, "The images of war display for us in detail the human struggle between right and war, faith, courage and sacrifice. We must put aside our differences...and with respect and tolerance we must strengthen who we are as we pause to pay respect to the brave men and women [who are our veterans]."

Amenia resident Nancy Stark said she agreed with the speakers that veterans and soldiers alike should be shown more respect, and more appreciation by the public.

"I don’t think our troops are recognized nearly as much as they should be," she said. "If it wasn’t for them we wouldn’t be here."

That’s why town Councilwoman Vicki Doyle said she worked so hard to make sure Sunday’s event was organized, as it is every year, by the town.

"It’s just really good for the community to come together and celebrate things important to the community, like Veterans Day," she said, adding that the American Legion and civic groups like the Cub Scouts joined in with the town to make the event possible. "It’s important to stop our lives for half an hour and show our support."

To see photos of the ceremony turn to page A6.

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