Today, the Farmington VFW Post 10361, celebrated Veterans Day 2013 with a morning breakfast hosted by The Gables and attended by residents of the senior assisted living center, including veterans, their families and staff, as well as area veterans, followed by a ceremony at 11:00 a.m. at the Farmington Town Hall in front of the Veterans’ Memorial Monument.
During the ceremony, members of the VFW posted the colors and a wreath was placed in front of the Veterans’ Monument. This year, William Baker, Farmington VFW Post Commander, spoke honoring veterans. During the speech, Baker stated, “As we recognize Veteran’s Day 2013, I hope you join the Farmington VFW in showing great respect and high honor to veterans of all ages. No one segment of our nation’s population has been asked to do more for their country than veterans. In fact, our veterans have secured a peaceful future for many other nations across the world.”
A poem was recited that was written by a Vietnam Veteran shortly after he returned home from the war that demonstrated the powerful message of what Veterans’ contributions to America are:
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"It is the veteran, not the preacher, who has given you freedom of religion.
It is the veteran, not the reporter, who has given you freedom of the press.
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It is the veteran, not the poet, who has given you freedom of speech.
It is the veteran, not the protesters, who has given you freedom to assemble.
It is the veteran, not the lawyer, who has given you the right to a fair trial.
It is the veteran, not the politician, who has given you the right to vote.
It is the veteran, who salutes the Flag, and who serves under that Flag."
In closing, Baker stated, “The best way to honor our veterans is to take an active part in maintaining freedom in America. We must teach future generations about what it means to be an American. We must ensure our veterans and their families are taken care of, volunteer in our communities, vote in elections, and continue to try to make America the very best that it can be.” Additionally, he stated, “If you know a Veteran or a family member of a Veteran give them all a heartfelt, ‘Thanks for my freedom.’
The Farmington VFW would also like to extend a special thank you to the community members that joined its members and fellow Veterans at today’s events. Additionally, Farmington Town Council members, Charlie Keniston and Amy Suffredini, and State Representative Mike Demicco showed their support with their attendance. Lee Beckwith from the Town Manager’s Office was extremely supportive and instrumental in insuring all amenities were provided to hold the ceremony.
Happy Veterans’ Day!
