A change of venue for the November 11 Veterans Day Ceremony presented by the Town of Newtown and Newtown High School has been announced, due to new COVID-19 restrictions limiting the number of people allowed at gatherings. Although the event was originally planned to be held at the 2nd Company Governor’s Horse Guard (2GHG), American Legion Vice Commander Donna Monteleone announced Thursday, November 5, that the event will now take place as a drive-in, radio broadcast program in the parking lot outside of the Newtown Senior Center, 8 Simpson Street.

The Veterans Day program will begin at 1 pm, with veterans and families invited to find a parking spot beginning at 12:30 pm. All Newtown veterans are invited to come celebrate.

Participants will hear guest speakers American Legion Post 202 District Commander Nicholas Cabral and Newtown First Selectman Dan Rosenthal.

Monteleone said that some members of the Newtown High School Singers are still expected to be on hand to sing the national anthem, and members of the Newtown High School wind ensemble will perform a patriotic medley arranged by NHS student Matt Calorossi.

Early in the program, a history of Veterans Day will be shared, followed by “Taps,” played by NHS student Evan Keckley.

A photo collage of veterans has been created, and the American Legion hopes to announce shortly where the video can be viewed from the safety of homes.

The Newtown High School culinary classes will prepare a box lunch for veterans who request one.

RSVP to americanlegionnewtown@gmail.com or call 203-577-9568 as soon as possible and no later than Sunday, November 8, so that the correct number of lunches can be ordered.