Hometown Heroes banners will wave in honor of Amenia’s veterans

AMENIA — Traveling through the town of Amenia, local residents are likely to spot the red and blue banners that now hang throughout town in recognition of Amenia’s veterans and their military service.

As was initiated in the town of Pine Plains last year, the Hometown Heroes program offers local families and organizations the chance to sponsor a banner in honor of those who have served or are currently serving their country, and the Amenia Lions Club invited the community to join in honoring their local veterans at the Hometown Heroes banner unveiling and dedication ceremony held on Saturday, Oct. 16.

Starting at 10 a.m. at Fountain Square in front of the former M&T Bank, the event attracted a good crowd of local officials, county representatives and area residents who came to pay their respects to the veterans who fought for their country and those who gave their lives for the safety of their fellow citizens.

Amenia Lions Club member Wayne Euvrard delivered a heartfelt speech.

“A veteran is a person who would lay down his life for his country,” Euvrard said. “A veteran is one who is well-deserving of our love and our prayers 365 days out of the year.”

On behalf of the Wassaic-Amenia Community Organization and Silo Ridge, Juan Torres, managing member of Silo Ridge Ventures, shared how proud both entities were to partner with the Amenia Lions Club to support the program.

“As our friends and neighbors drive through the streets, it is our hope that these banners remind each of us what binds us together,” Torres said. “[These veterans] are the best of us, the best of Amenia, the best of America.”

Speaking on behalf of Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro, Dutchess County Veterans Services Director Adam Roche said the Hometown Heroes program celebrated the region’s veterans.

Amenia Lions Club President Lori Hale thanked all who supported the program as well as the veterans who have served and continue to serve with immeasurable sacrifice. Hale then invited everyone to enjoy the beautiful banners that now hang throughout town. As the crowd began to disperse, residents approached veterans in attendance to personally thank them for their service.