A day for remembrance; a day for veterans in Amenia

AMENIA — The flags waved in the wind while young Cub Scouts scurried into position, lining up for the annual Veterans Day commemoration. As the ceremony began, veterans stood just a little taller, their presence lending a sense of honor to the morning’s activities.

The scene was Amenia’s Fountain Square, where for many years the town has held its Veterans Day ceremony, in honor of all who have served, past and present.

“It’s in annual recognition of those who have served before and are serving now ­— those who have gone to war for the service of our country in defense of democracy,� former town Councilman Herb Eschbach said. Eschbach now maintains Fountain Square, a site of many town events, a site of pride for its residents. “I think it’s important for every community in the country to recognize those who have served.�

When  asked if he attends the ceremony annually, Eschbach was quick to respond.

“I sure do,� he said.

So, too, does Commander Butch Barto, from VFW Post 5444, in Amenia/Dover.

“I think it’s great. Each year I think we get a better turnout,� he said from the line he just joined, ready to participate in the service itself on that cool November morning. “And every year I get somebody turning up saying, ‘Thank you for your service.’�

That’s just the kind of sentiment Vicky Jasmin is trying to imprint in the minds of the young boys she was standing watch over at the ceremony, dressed up with jackets covering their blue and orange uniforms. Jasmin is the den leader for the Weblos of Cub Scouts Pack 29. The boys were there, as they are every year, to pay thanks to the town’s veterans.

“I think it’s important for them to recognize the veterans of the town and to praise them. And we want to thank them for all they’ve done for us,� Jasmin said. “They’re a good example for our kids.�

Resident Tonia Shoumatoff offered that morning’s prayer. Her words were couched in appreciation and hope.

“With gratitude we thank you, veterans, for all you gave and give,� she said. “May peace prevail on earth.�

Town Supervisor Wayne Euvrard, himself a Vietnam veteran, also spoke to the crowd.

“This is a day we honor our veterans for their service to this great nation,� he said. “Today we have over 24 million veterans in the United States. God bless our brave troops who serve us world wide.�

Fifteen-year-old Sara Costigan then took to the podium to sing the national anthem, followed by “My Country Tis of Thee.� That was followed by a presentation by the Cub Scouts. With that, the ceremony came to a close.

Councilwoman Vicki Doyle summarized why she thought the event was so important.

“I think it’s a good opportunity for all of the various members of the community to express their appreciation to our veterans,� she said. “And it’s becoming more and more of an activity for the town.�