Veterans Recogntion Day, gala planned

The Harry Ruffin Jr. American Legion Post 206 will host the American Legion Annual Veterans Recognition Day Gala and Banquet Celebration, Nov. 11 from 5-9 p.m. at the Red Lion Hotel, 100 Berlin Road Cromwell. The reception will begin at 5 p.m., followed by the awards ceremony at 6 p.m.

The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans care and rehabilitation, Americanism and youth programs. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their local communities, state and nation.

“The purpose for the Annual Veterans Recognition Day Gala and Banquet is twofold: To recognize local veterans who through volunteering work raise public awareness about the crucial issues facing America’s veterans and their families. Second we owe it to those who served our country to never forget their sacrifice and devotion,” said Post 206 1st Vice Commander Rosellen K. Duncan/Phillips.

The Harry Ruffin Jr. American Legion Post 206 presents Annual Veterans Recognition Citations to honorees who have distinguished themselves by conducting their daily lives with openmindedness and respect, showing leadership by example, and diligence in their fight for veterans’ rights and dignity.

This year recipients are Quintyia M. Buttram, Joseph B Dembry, Rev. Mack Elder, Calvin Hart, Clifford Holloman, Ashley N. Jackson, Woodrow James, Olin Richey, Rev. Willie J. Young. American Post 206 Veterans Service Award, Rosellen K. Duncan/ Phillips, and ROTC Youth, Special Recognition Award Alexandrea Alexus Chapman.

The keynote speaker is John Motley Lt. (Ret.) United States Army, Decorated Vietnam Veteran, Recipient of the Bronze Star Medal, Principal of Motley Consulting, Former President of The Travelers Foundation.

For more information and to purchase tickets, contact banquet members Barbara White 860-5103654 or wbawhite@aol.com Rosellen K. Duncan/Phillips at 860997-9399 or roseduncan10@gmail.com Pamela Steele at 860-788-2715 or pamelaroose@sbcglobal.net