by Gail Smith
Veterans Day kicked off with vets gathering at Hoosick Falls Community Alliance Church to enjoy coffee and pastries and camaraderie. Then at 11 am community members gathered in Wood Park for the traditional Veterans Day ceremony. [private]
American Legion Post 40 Commander Ike Powers welcomed those who braved the rain while the Honor Guard stood at attention.
Each veteran who attended was invited to come forward to introduce himself and share briefly his military history, and all attending were given an opportunity to personally thank them for their service.
The American Legion provided a bountiful luncheon following the ceremony.
At 1:30 pm about two dozen people gathered at the Bennington Battlefield for a Flag Retreat. John Sheaff from Friends of Bennington Battlefield and SAR addressed the crowd. He talked about the sacrifices our soldiers made, and the role our ancestors played.
There was a wreath dedication by DAR, a musket salute by Peter Schaaphok, and Taps played by Hope Chinian.
The Hoosick Falls Girl Scouts lowered Liberty, the Town of Hoosick Tribute Flag. As they were ceremonially folding her, Boy Scouts from Arlington, VT read what each fold meant. Every year, a ceremony is performed as the flag is lowered for the last time and retired until the Battlefield opens again in the spring.
Veterans Day events continued on Saturday when a few trivia buffs met at Hoosick Falls Community Alliance Church for Voice of a Vet’s Veterans Day Trivia Contest. Though the numbers were small, all who attended had fun and learned a lot of interesting tidbits about the Town of Hoosick. Thanks to Tom McMartin, who put together the trivia questions.
To finish off the week, HAYC3 hosted an art show. Original art pieces, along with music and poetry gave voice to the cries of the hearts of those whose pieces were on display or performed. Videos played in the background of local veterans, and there was a full display of the Town of Hoosick Tribute Flag’s journey to honor Town of Hoosick men who died in service.[/private]