By Mayor Charlene Lovett
Saturday, November 11th, is a time of reflection and an opportunity to honor those who have served our country since its birth. Donning the uniform is a privilege that comes with sacrifice, and it is important that we recognize those sacrifices given for the benefit of us all. Because less than one percent of the U.S. population is currently serving in the Armed Forces, it is becoming increasingly difficult for us to be connected to veterans.
Because of Claremont’s rich military history, there are many veterans among us. You may recognize them by the clothing that they wear or the stories that they tell. On the other hand, you may encounter others and never know that they have served. Every veteran has a different experience and it is their decision as to how much they wish to share.
Our choice rests on how we choose to honor them. Will we demonstrate our appreciation of our freedom by exercising our right to vote during elections? Will we take the time to attend a Veteran’s Day ceremony or offer a word of thanks. Will we visit a memorial or support the work of the many veterans’ clubs in the area?
Whatever the choice may be, the important factor is that we do something to remember those who served and those who are serving. Living here in New Hampshire, it is difficult to imagine the experiences of service personnel who are deployed thousands of miles away, engaged in missions that put their lives at risk. As we ramp up for the holiday season, they are reconciling themselves to the fact that they may not be home for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
As they do each year, the American Legion will be hosting a Veteran’s Day ceremony at 11am in Broad Street Park. If you are able, please consider attending. It would be very rewarding to our veterans and their families to see the park filled with people who value their service.
Charlene Lovett is the Mayor of Claremont and welcomes your feedback. Please email questions, comments or concerns to her at clovett.ccc@gmail.com.
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