Shelton mayor’s annual Flag Day picnic celebrates Old Glory, city’s veterans
SHELTON — The American flag took center stage Friday as dozens gathered to pay tribute to Old Glory and those military veterans who sacrificed this country’s freedom.
Shelton celebrated Flag Day with Mayor Mark Lauretti’s annual Flag Day picnic; an event hosted by the city’s Economic Development Commission. Shelton Economic Development Corp. President Paul Grimmer led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance before the presentation of the American flag.
“Today we recognize Old Glory,” Lauretti told the onlookers. “This is the symbol of freedom around the world.”
Lauretti talked about the significance of holding this event at Veterans Memorial Park, once hom eto the BF Goodrich company. That building was the scene of the largest arson in state history in 1975, he said, and in its place now sits a refurbished location that has proven to be a benefit to city residents.
“It is important for all of us to draw attention to this great flag,” Lauretti said, “and remember the men and women who sacrificed their lives … for us to be free.”
Iroquois Gas Transmission System was key sponsor of the event, which also featured Southern Connecticut State University School of Business and Shelton High School officials offering information and literature on how to hire one of their students
“Today we recognize Old Glory. This is the symbol of freedom around the world.”
Shelton Mayor Mark Lauretti
through internships.
Economic Development Commission Chair Bing Carbone of Modern Plastics said his company has hired numerous interns over the years that have gone on to becom ee mployees of the company.