Brian Richardson honored by AMVets

TORRINGTON — Dan Thurston, commander of AMVets Post 24 Northwest Connecticut welcomed guests, residents and veterans to the group’s annual awards dinner and social at Chatterley’s Restaurant on Jan. 28,

In addition to dinner, the evening included the recognition of citizens and veterans who provided support and outstanding dedication to the veteran community in 2017.

Bryan Richardson, of Lakeville, a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, received the Veteran of the Year award and was presented with an plaque and special AMVets medal mounted on a bolo tie.

“Richardson has exhibited exemplary dedication to helping and honoring veterans,” members said in a statement.

Richardson died Feb. 6.

“The veteran community of Northwest Connecticut was sad to learn of Brian Richardson’s unexpected death,” members said. “He will be greatly missed.”

AMVets was formed during World War II as a way to aid those coming out of the war who needed help and didn’t know where to get that help.

“Our motto is veterans helping veterans,” members said in a statement. “It is the only veteran service organization that extends membership to any veterans who has honorably served in any branch of the United State Armed Forces including active duty, reserves and our National Guard.”

AMVets Post 24 meets the second Thursday of every month at the at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 152 Litchfield Street, Torrington.

For information, contact Thurston at vetstalk@snet.net

Contributed photo / AMVets Post 24 From left, AMVets Post 24 Commander Dan Thurston, looks on while Brian Richardson, center, is presented with the AMVET of the Year 2017 award by John “Reggie” Harrison.