By Geri Ann Kazimar
On a nice sunny day with temperatures in the 50’s approximately 100 plus people were present for the annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony on November 11th. Approximately 35 veterans were present as were, the Mayor, Members of the Township Committee, Police, Fire, EMS and OEM personnel, residents and students from the schools.
Geri Ann Kazimar welcomed all Veterans, residents and children to the Annual Veterans Day Ceremony. Jordan Sievert led those in attendance in singing a stunning rendition of our National Anthem. It was beautiful.
Father Joseph Barbone, pastor St. James the Apostle Church gave both the invocation and the benediction. Len Feiner, Vietnam Veteran, American Legion Post 228 read a speech telling the story of Medal of Honor recipient David Bellavia. It’s a story we should all hear. “His heroism is one story of the millions of living veterans.” In the speech, we were challenged to “ask a veteran his story. Every single man and woman who has raised their right hand and pledged to give their life for their country if needed, did so for a reason. Ask them why?” We should start today and ask the questions. They have so much to say and need someone to listen; before it’s too late.
Mayor Erica DuBois read a Proclamation for Veterans Day. Placement of the POW/MIA flag was made by Joe Policastro & David Penna. Gerry Gebauer read the names of the Springfield Honor Roll, township residents killed in action during previous wars. Pete Mongiello & Richard Novak presented of the wreath. David Lenci read the significance of the Pow/MIA flag. Musical medley “Hymn to the Fallen” performed by the Jonathan Dayton High School Band directed by Benjamin Krupit.
Gerry Gebauer, Commander American Legion Post 228 presented a coin to the Hometown Heroes in appreciation of their commitment to our Veterans which was accepted by Victoria Sarracino. On behalf of Maria Vassallo, Geri Ann Kazimar and Linda Donnelly; founding members who we’re in attendance. The entire St. James school was in attendance and serenaded the Veterans in singing My Country ‘Tis of Thee”. Everyone sang along as Michelle Sblendorio of St. James led us in singing God Bless America. Echo taps played by Brycen Kirshenbaum and Aiden Forys.
The 3 Volley rifle salute made by Springfield Auxiliary Police Officer Sara Abraham and Cert Team member and veteran Jim Sedlak and coordinated by Emergency Management Deputy Coordinator Wally Schultz.
The ceremony was concluded when Linda Donnelly, Victoria Sarracino and Geri Ann Kazimar Presented the Veterans with a pin from the Township of Springfield. A picture was taken of all the Veterans. The Township is Springfield Salutes all the Veterans. We wish to thank all those in attendance and especially all the Veterans who came out. We Salute You!
Photos Couretsy of: Osment Spencer, Linda Donnelly and Victoria Sarracino
