A ROTARY SALUTE TO VETERANS
Veteran’s Day is intended to honor and thank all military personnel in the United States who served in all wars, particularly living veterans. In honor of our veterans, Farmington Rotary hosted a Veteran’s Day celebration at Farmington Gardens on Tuesday, November 12th. We had approximately 75 in attendance, including several veterans, dignitaries, Rotarians, family and friends, as well as active members of the Marine Corp. Farmington Rotary club has been supporting our veterans and the Tunxis Oasis for many years with a special annual event.
The program opened with President Elizabeth Sheridan addressing the attendees, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a special performance of our national anthem and God Bless America led by vocalist Carrie Hammond and Albert Tomasso on the piano. The invocation was led by club Chaplain Diane Kennedy followed by a delicious lunch provided by Phil Chabot of Farmington Gardens.
Robin Barrett introduced our first of three guest speakers. Chelsea Edwards, granddaughter of long time Rotarian and veteran Norman Ballard, gave a very heartfelt and emotional tribute to her grandpa and spoke of their special connection through their mutual gift as artists. Next Robin introduced Jody Viola, who was honoring her late father, Joseph Gustin. Jody read a memoir in her father’s own words about his time serving in World War II. Lastly, Robin introduced her & Dave’s longtime friend, Brett Quinion. Brett shared his personal experience “My Day in DC with WW II Veteran Walter Kizilski”. Brett shared many emotional details of his humbling experience with Walter and many of our countries veterans when honored in our nation’s capital.
Unionville Pediatrician and veteran, Dr. Peter Jannuzzi, ended the program with his performance of “American Way”. Peter collaborated with a Southington based video producer to create the music video (American Way) a song Jannuzzi wrote and recorded. Peter donated proceeds from the video of over $10,000 to the Veteran’s Oasis. The Veteran’s OASIS (Operation Academic Support for Incoming Servicemembers) is a place on the campus of Tunxis Community College where the service men and women transition from military service to civilian life.
A special thank you to our Veteran's Day Celebration committee: Co-chairs Robin and Dave Barrett, committee members Mike Cheshire, Bob Festa, Mary Lou Wadsworth and Bette Case. Also a big thank you to our sponsors: The Joseph Gustin Family, Robin & Dave Barrett, and Bette & Bill Case.
