Veterans were remembered and thanked for their service at events around the region on Veterans Day. The traditional ceremony at the Southport Library was a moving event with over 50 in attendance. In the evening, a traditional American Legion Veterans Day ceremony was held at the Post Hall, followed by a moving flag disposal ceremony.

Commander Robin Ford led the Hall ceremony with Doug Gimbel singing the national anthem, and Brigadier General Greg Smith and Staff Sergeant Christopher Armstead participating in uniform. Also, part of the ceremony were Chaplain Al Sirois, First Vice Commander Joel Morley, Auxiliary President Suzanne Harmon, and Kylie Higgins (a Post member and VA Volunteer Services Director). This ceremony honors not only the veterans, but those on the home front, it honors all those in public service, it recognizes the diversity of those who serve and their courage. The final thoughts presented by the Commander are worth repeating: “In time of peace we can use the ennobling virtues of war and put behind us its ugliness and suffering. In peace we shall go forward together to scale new heights of achievement in unity of purpose, in sacrifice for the common good, in tolerance for those of different faiths and creeds, in bravery to fight for social and economic gains, and in the discipline of good citizenship. We shall move forward in the sight of God as a strong nation in a peaceful world.”

The flag disposal ceremony was officiated by SSgt Christopher Armstead. BG Greg Smith lead Stephen Williams and Scout Camden Higgins carrying the flag to the fire. Christopher then spoke from the view of the flag saying: “I am your Flag. I appear in many places. I have taken many forms and been called many names. I was authorized by Congress in 1818 in the form you see now and have remained unchanged except to add a new star each July 4th after a new state joined the union until I reached my present number of 50.

“I am more than just red, white and blue cloth shaped into a design. I am a silent sentinel of freedom.” And continues to explain the meaning of the parts of the flag as they are torn from the flag, first the blue field, then each of the 13 strips, each being placed into the fire as they are cut.

He concludes by reciting: “Now I am just a memory, but if there is a tear in your eye or a lump in your throat; it you felt a shiver in your spine as you watched me burn, then I will be back the next time you need me and my colors will be fresh and bright and my edges won’t be ragged anymore. When I climb to the top of the flagpole, I’ll wave at you and remember the love and respect that you have showed me here tonight.”

The Post will be having a fundraising spaghetti dinner for Ian Michaud on Saturday, Dec. 3 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Your support will be sincerely appreciated!