Mayor praises Absecon veterans who stand guard, spread hope
Nov, 12-2009 1:19 pm
By STEVE PRISAMENT
Staff Writer
ABSECON – Calling it an honor to address some 50 veterans on Veterans Day, Mayor Peter Elco spoke at Veterans Park Wednesday, Nov. 11.
Given in the midst of a slow-falling rain, the mayor’s speech highlighted an event that featured the presenting of colors by the Absecon Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9462 Honor Guard, a prayer, flag salute, gun salutes by the VFW Post and Absecon American Legion Post 28, and the playing of taps.
“On behalf of the governing body and the city of Absecon, I am honored to share this distinguished day with you,” Elco said.
He quoted William Shakespeare.
“How far that little light throws his beams,” the mayor said. “So shines a good deed in a weary world.”
Our veterans, he said, have been the inspirational light that illuminates an unselfish commitment to a grateful country.
“You are our veterans. You are our heroes,” Elco said, “volunteering and taking the time to care by readily offering a portion of life to serve your country.”
Veterans encourage others and help people by remaining steadfast to the nation’s principles, the mayor said.
“Through constant trial at home or on foreign soil, you became stronger each day as you nourished the needs of others.”
He said they eagerly responded to the call of duty, no matter how challenging. “Reveling in the responsible delight of knowing you held our banner high while marching forward,” he said, “always constant in deliberation when advancing the heart-felt pride relating to your most valuable post – never giving up, fighting for freedom, fighting for democracy. Standing guard, while spreading hope throughout the extended night and day until the time when peace arrives.”
He stressed the community’s appreciation.
“You are our veterans; you are our heroes,” Elco said. “We will remain forever grateful for your dedicated and unselfish service.”
The ceremony was sponsored by Absecon’s VFW and American Legion posts.
To comment on this story email steve.prisament@catamaranmedia.com.
