Carved in stone in front of the VFW Post 308 are the words, “Comrades in the silent land beyond, wherever your mortal remains may rest, there the ground is hallowed.” During a Memorial Day ceremony Monday, May 27, veteran and VFW Quarter Master Michael Mich placed a wreath against the stone, then stood to salute.

He and other veterans, their family members, and residents spent time remembering those men and women who lost their lives serving their country.

“Today, it is important to honor those who gave us truth, justice, and the American way,” said State Representative Mitch Bolinsky, 106th district. He expressed “gratitude to those who gave all… respect to those who served us. God bless our heroes.”

First Selectman Dan Rosenthal borrowed John F. Kennedy’s words and said, “The highest appreciation is not to utter words, but live by them.” He said, “If you want to thank a soldier, be the kind of American worth fighting for.”

State Representative J.P. Sredzinski, 112th district, said, “This day isn’t about us. We’re here because of sacrifice.” The veterans must be honored, he said. “We have lost countless people defending our values.” Their values “are alive. Respect, loyalty, and freedom.”

State Senator Tony Hwang, 28th district, stressed that people should say thank you to those “who made the sacrifice.” Saying “happy” Memorial Day is not right. “The proper phrase is ‘Thank you,’” he said.

Post Commander Paul Galietti said, “War is a grotesque evil, and also necessary to prevent enemies from taking our freedom.” He asked for a moment of silence “for those who never came home.”

Mr Galietti spoke of people, “seeking the American Dream and the pursuit of happiness. May we never take for granted our freedom.”

Before a bugle’s notes cut the air, VFW members and Ladies Auxiliary members placed the symbolic wreath and flowers before the remembrance stone, concluding the ceremony.