Cronin Brothers VFW hosts annual Veterans Day Observance
 

[November 12, 2024]   Monday, November 11th was Veterans day across the nation. In honor of that day, a special Veterans Day Observance was hosted at the Cronin Brothers VFW Freedom Hall.

There was a large group gathered for this year’s observance including many local veterans and their families.

VFW post commander Bill Stauffer welcomed guests. He then introduced honored guests American Legion Post 263 Commander Gene Hickey, Marine Corps League Commandant James Harnacke, Past VFW Department Commander Vince Long, VFW Women’s Auxiliary President Theresa Pourchot, Past VFW Auxiliary Department President Janet Long.

He acknowledged the American Legion Post 263 color guard and thanked the Patriot Guard Riders for the placement of flags outside the building.

Stauffer then called upon veteran and VFW Chaplain Chris Glick to offer the invocation. This was followed by the gathered crowd reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and Lesleigh Bennett singing the Star Spangled Banner.

The guest speaker for the day was Stauffer, who delivered a short message, talking about what Veteran’s Day represents and what it means to him personally.

He explained that there were those who would choose to use this day from work and school as a day to relax, enjoy a time out doing something fun, and some were in attendance at Veterans Day celebrations.

He said this was only fitting, because it was a demonstration of the freedoms we have in this country. People have the right to choose how they will spend this day and all other days, because brave men and women in the armed forces have dedicated themselves to assuring that America is a land of democracy, where we all have choice.

He said that some will understand that there is a cost to such freedom of choice, and the cost is paid by our military. He added that the price paid is something that many cannot even fathom, but that it is a price service men and women know and willing pay to secure the future of our country.

Stauffer encouraged everyone to show their appreciation for those who have served and those who are serving.

When Stauffer finished, he called for the laying of the wreath. This is an annual event, when a large wreath is placed in front of the fallen soldier tribute. This year the wreath was placed by Theresa Pourchot and Janet Long.

American Legion Post 263 delivers the Three-shot volley

The American Legion color guard then assembled outside and delivered the three-shot volley as Taps was played inside the building.

Chaplain Glick delivered the benediction and Stauffer encouraged everyone to stay for the customary ham and bean lunch.

[Nila Smith]