Valerie Manor to honor veterans today

TORRINGTON — Valerie Manor will hold a special celebration to honor Joseph J. Roman, a decorated World War II veteran, as well as other veterans at the facility.

Roman, a graduate of Torrington High School, is a World War II Veteran and Purple Heart recipient. Drafted into the army in 1943, Roman first served in North Africa before being assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division in Europe. The 3rd is famous for suffering the most casualties of any division in the entirety of the War. Members of the division hold 39 Medals of Honor; Roman is the second most decorated in the division behind Audie Murphy, who is the most decorated soldier of World War II. Roman served with the division in Sicily, France, Germany, and Austria. He was hospitalized on four separate occasions for various reasons.

Roman’s division was the first to enter Rome after the push from Anzio, Italy to Rome. The push from Anzio is believed to be the most suffering 24-hour period in World War II history with the 3rd Infantry Division suffering 995 casualties. Roman and the 3rd Infantry are also responsible for capturing Hitler’s summer home in Austria. Roman was injured by machine gun fire during the invasion of France, for which he received his Purple Heart.

The celebration will be held Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. Tracy Hoskins, Director of Recreation, will be giving the opening remarks and Roll Call. Members of the Color Guard and VA of Torrington will give the Veterans Day salute with Taps and flag.

For information, contact Tim Brown at tbrown@athenahealthcare.com or call 860-751-39