Newtown's Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 308 invited the public to join them in honoring all the men and women who served - and are currently serving in the United States Arms Forces, with a Veterans Day Ceremony on November 11, at 11 am.

VFW Commander Jim Lewis started the ceremony with the Pledge of Allegiance, and Ladies Auxiliary member Jen Clark followed singing the national anthem.

Heads bowed as acting VFW Chaplain Don Bashak delivered the opening blessing that ended with a moment of silence for departed comrades and those who are missing in action.

Mr Lewis declared, "Today we gather to observe Veterans Day. This is a day of remembrance to honor all those who have worn the uniform, so that we all can enjoy the freedom that we know."

He asked if any of those attending would like to pay tribute to the memory of a friend or loved one who has served.

One by one, community members stood and stated their relationship to the veteran they were honoring, the branch of military and conflict in which they served, as well as any noting any medals they had earned.

"We dedicate this day to all of those courageous men and women," Mr Lewis concluded. "God bless our heroes, our families, and God bless America."

Selectman Herb Rosenthal came to the event not only representing Town government, but as a veteran himself.

"As a former veteran, it is my honor and privilege to be with you once again, to pay tribute to the men and women who served our country in defense of liberty and freedom that we all enjoy," said Mr Rosenthal.

He educated the audience on the history of Veterans Day, from its first incarnation called Armistice Day on November 11, 1918. The holiday was set on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month to remember the sacrifices made during World War I.

After a number of date and name changes, in 1978 Congress formally marked Veterans Day as November 11.

Mr Rosenthal added, "I salute all who have served, all who are serving, and all those who will serve to support and defend the Constitution of America against all enemies foreign and domestic. May God bless our veterans and keep them safe. And may God bless the people of Newtown and the United States of America on this day and every day."

The next guest was State Senator Tony Hwang. Without formal written remarks, he spoke passionately and from the heart.

"As an individual who grew up in a country that was under Martial Law, that did not allow me the right to vote, the right to form an opinion, the right to disagree, these are treasured privileges and rights as Americans that our soldiers have fought and given their lives to defend. That is why we honor and respect our veterans."

He advocated the importance of veterans deserving job security and healthcare when they return from deployment.

Senator Hwang ended by saying, "On this day when we honor our veterans, let us go forth tomorrow and the next day and every single day to recognize that veterans among us, veterans who have made the sacrifice, and their families deserve our respect and our support every single day."

To pay respect to their comrades who have died and fought for America's freedom, Sergeant Scott Kozek, Staff Sergeant Dustin Gill, Sergeant James Simpson, and Senior Vice Commander for Post 308 Jay Gill participated in the traditional laying of the wreath and colored carnations as a symbol of remembrance.

The ceremony concluded with VFW Men's Auxiliary member Robert Arnold firing two gun salutes. "Taps" was played, followed by Mr Bashak reciting a closing prayer.

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