Stratford Pays Tribute To Veterans In Gathering At Academy Hill

STRATFORD, Conn. -- Members of the Stratford community gathered at Academy Hill on Wednesday morning to pay tribute to those who have served their country in the armed services.

Members of the Marine Corps League Housatonic Detachment march at the memorial at Academy Hill during Stratford's Veterans Day ceremony
Photo Credit: *Casey Donahue*

Stratford veterans and community members gathered at the memorial to pay tribute to those who have served their nation.
Photo Credit: *Casey Donahue*

Casey Donahue

11/12/2015 5:00 a.m.

The ceremony was led by the Stratford Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Marine Corps League Housatonic Detachment. It included the Pledge of Allegiance, the singing of "God Bless America" and remarks by town and state officials.

"We honor our living and fallen heroes, those who defended our way of life so that we may live in a free and democratic republic," said Mayor John Harkins.

"Without your service, our values, our liberties, and our freedoms wouldn't be enjoyed by our community," said State Sen. Kevin Kelly. He said that many veterans coming back face issues like difficulties find a job or even homelessness. While the state has made strides in helping veterans, he said that Connecticut needs to do more to aid those who answered the call to defend their nation.

"They’re our neighbors, our fathers and mothers, our sisters and brothers, people in our community," Kelly said. "Your sacrifice and service foremost in our thoughts."

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