Ceremony recognizes those who served
Shelton holds program at riverfront war memorial
SHELTON — Dozens gathered at the city’s riverfront war memorial Thursday for the annual ceremony honoring veterans and victims of all wars.
The giant American flag flew from the Echo Hose Hook and Ladder Co. fire truck as residents walked to the memorial for the Veterans Day ceremony. The Sutter-Terlizzi American Legion Post 16 hosted the event, which also featured representatives of the East Coast Doughboys — a group for World War I re-enactors, both men, and women.
Janelle Beardsley — daughter of Guy Beardsley, well known resident who died last week — and her husband, Ed Wittkofski, were in traditional doughboy garb and rang the bell 21 times in salute to World War I veterans.
The event began with remarks from Post Commander Dave Gallagher and Mayor Mark Lauretti.
“Walking here, I am reminded of so many of the familiar faces who are here year in and year out who are no longer with us anymore,” Lauretti said.
Lauretti said he is “reminded of the tradition and level of importance they gave to Veterans Day and instilled in all of us. It is no surprise so many turn out for this ceremony every year. It is a credit to our community. I am grateful people recognize the importance of freedom. Many Americans before us paid the ultimate sacrifice so that we can assemble, speak and live our lives.”
The Sarah Riggs Humphreys-Mary Silliman
Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, were also on hand at the nearby
Shelton Farmers Market building, handing out brochures commemorating the
100th anniversary of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.