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It was a day to “remember and give thanks to our veterans and to soldiers still fighting overseas,” said Paul Nephew, commander of Milton American Legion Post 114.
“To those who are willing to sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy, this is your day,” he said.
Rep. Walter Timilty called Veterans Day “the most sacred day on our nation’s calendar” and told the crowd to thank the veterans they meet.
“Take the time to thank them and think about what they’ve done for us,” he said.
The flag was hoisted as members of the American Legion and Milton High girls’ chorus led the crowd in the National Anthem. Speakers included Nephew, Timilty, Selectmen Chair Kathy Fagan, Milton High Senior Max Liberman and Town Administrator Kevin Mearn.
Mearn, who earned the Purple Heart and Bronze Star as a Marine in Vietnam, had three words to sum up the day: “God Bless America.”
“This country has always needed a strong military to safeguard our freedoms and our way of life,” he said. “Today is our day to say thank you.”
Mearn acknowledged the police and fire departments for their service, and praised Steven Murphy, the town veteran’s agent, for offering “commendable” services to veterans. Murphy is a patrolman in addition to being the veteran’s agent.
Fagan urged residents to continue supporting veterans any way they can.
“Whether we donate our time, treasure or talent,” she said, “we should make sure we give our veterans a homeland worth fighting for. We as Americans in large part owe our freedom to them.”
Prayers were offered by Rev. Samuel S. Rodman of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, the Rev. Peter Casey of St. Agatha Parish and Rev. George H. Welles, Jr. of Church of Our Saviour.
Said Rodman: “Their courage inspires us, their dedication touches our hearts and their sacrifice is an example to us.”
The Boy and Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts and
Brownies showed their support with Veterans Day signs and flags. The Milton High School band
also played.