Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)
Flag-raising ceremony honors veterans
Chamber held its 2nd annual event
DOWNINGTOWN >> Veterans and elected officials gathered Friday at the Veterans Memorial in Kerr Park on Veterans Day for a ceremony to honor veterans.
The Downingtown Thorndale Regional Chamber of Commerce hosted its second annual Veterans Day Flag Raising Ceremony.
U.S. Rep. Ryan Costello, R-6, of West Goshen, said he loves the American flag. He said the sacrifices by the service members and veterans is what has given people their freedom, including their right to peacefully protest. He noted that in reference to the protests following the presidential election on Tuesday when Republican Donald Trump became the presidential-elect over Democrat Hillary Clinton.
Downingtown Mayor Josh Maxwell said veterans understand what public service means and the American flag “cannot begin to describe how much we appreciate” their service.
“We are thankful for everything you have done,” Maxwell said.
Chester County Commissioners Michelle Kichline and Kathi Cozzone thanked the veterans for their sacrifices and for serving. Cozzone additionally thanked their families for being supportive of them while they served.
“Your sacrifices have meant so much to what this country has become and what this country will continue to be,” Cozzone said.
Rep. Harris Lewis, R-74, of Caln, thanked the veterans for their service. He said country has been able to rebuild positive attitudes that the country stands on, because of the military.
“We believe in you, we love you,” Lewis said. “We thank you.”
Several veterans who attended the Lionville Middle School seventh annual Veterans Day assembly, of the Downingtown Area School District, on Friday then attended the flag raising ceremony. Several veterans remained at Kerr Park after the ceremony to retire the colors.
Downingtown Borough Council, many of them present on Friday, designated the Chamber of Commerce in 2015 as the organization responsible for the care, maintenance and purchasing of new flags at the Veterans Memorial flag pole in Kerr Park. Due to its central location in Chester County, Downingtown was selected in 2001 by Flags Across America to display the 30-by-60 flag at the small pocket park dedicated to military veterans. The chamber has worked to raise funds and replaced several flags that were worn from weather conditions.