By Beth David, Editor
The town of Acushnet commemorated Veterans Day with a ceremony at town hall that included a flag raising ceremony and vocals by the Ford Middle School chorus.
Acushnet Selectboard chairperson Kevin Gaspar told the crowd: “We gather today to honor the men and women who have worn this nation’s uniform. More importantly, we join together to thank them for their service and their devotion to duty.”
Whether they served in a time of war or peace, American veterans share a common bond, said Mr. Gaspar: “Their unwavering belief in the cause of freedom, a belief so strong they were willing to give their lives, if necessary, in its defense.”
He said that more than a million service members have made the “ultimate sacrifice” fighting for the country.
Veterans Day started out as Armistice Day, beginning after World War I ended, and was originally for the veterans of that war only. After the Korean War, President Dwight D. Eisenhower renamed it veterans day to honor all veterans.
“While the name has changed over the years, its purpose remains unchanged — to remember the sacrifice of those who have died and to honor those who are still with us,” said Mr. Gaspar. “We owe so much to our veterans, and it is a debt that we can never truly repay. Their stories are the stories of our history because America rose to greatness on their shoulders. We owe them our very way of life — the freedom to live, work and raise our families as we please. It is fitting, therefore, to honor their sacrifices and thank them for all that they have done for this great country.”
He continued: “To all veterans, we say ‘Thank you.’ Thank you for your sacrifices, your sense of duty, and your service. Our nation salutes you, and we gather here today to salute you.”
Mr. Gaspar’s full remarks are available on the town’s website: https://www.acushnet.ma.us/home/ news/acushnet-celebrates-veterans-day
••••••
Support local journalism, donate to the Neighb News at: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Y6V5ARRYH689G
Click here to download the entire 11-09-17 issue: 11-16-17 VetsParade
