Veterans Day Ceremony in Bayne Park

Bayne Park was an idyllic setting for the Veterans Day Memorial service which began promptly at 11am on 11/11 in commemoration of the armistice signed between the Allies of World War I and Germany at Compiègne, France, for the cessation of hostilities on the Western Front, which took effect at eleven o'clock in the morning — the "eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month" of 1918.  Mayor Doscher welcomed the gathering to the annual ceremony dedicated to the Veterans of all wars.

Fr Tusky's faith-filled invocation was followed by a strident rendition of our National Anthem by Bellevue resident, Jade Young.  The highly decorated WWII veteran, Hugo Alicandri, led the observers in the Pledge of Allegiance.  And Taps, signaling the closing of the soldier's day...Lights Out was dutifully played.

Mrs Heffley's second grade class prepared a "Salute to the Veterans" with some reading their written statements of gratitude to the servicemen and women of our country.  Others in the class performed a songful tribute, raising their placards spelling the word V-E-T-E-R-A-N-S and waving American flags.

The keynote speaker for the day, Judge Michael E McCarthy, a Navy Seabee and Vietnam Veteran, spoke eloquently of his respect and admiration for all military personnel.  Jade Young and the combined 2nd grade voices continued the program with the celebrated 'God Bless America.'  The ceremony concluded with Fr Tusky offering the Benediction.  Ms Sharon, Librarian and Cultural Director offered refreshments to the guests.