Veterans’ courage memorialized

AMENIA — Amenia residents and representatives joined together in the center of town last Thursday morning, Nov. 11, to honor the courage and selflessness of the nation’s veterans at the town’s annual Veterans Day service.

Hosted by the VFW Post 5444 and the town of Amenia, the service began at 11 a.m. sharp at the Amenia Fountain Square War Memorial, located at 4958 Route 22. Following an introduction by VFW Cmdr. Maddison Fletcher, the crowd bowed its heads for the service’s opening prayer in commemoration of the veterans’ service and sacrifice.

Under the direction of the VFW, the region’s local Boy Scout troop marched over to the war memorial and, with the crowd standing at attention, laid down a wreath, according to Amenia resident Robert Riemer who attended the service.

The local Girl Scouts troop sang “The National Anthem” to honor the occasion before Amenia town Supervisor Victoria Perotti stepped forward to say a few words in recognition of Veterans Day.

Reverend Douglas Grandgeorge from The Smithfield Church delivered the closing prayer and residents were invited by Fletcher to stop by the VFW Post for refreshments.