Community Corner

'Honoring Our Heroes': Past and Present

L. David York led a Memorial Day Ceremony in front of the Veteran's War Memorial in front of Monroe Town Hall after the parade Sunday. 

The ceremony was attended by State Rep. DebraLee Hovey (R-112th) and U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal.

Blumenthal said he shared the sentiments of the inscription on the Veteran's War Memorial behind him which reads: "To All of Those Veterans of the Town of Monroe Who Served Their Country: Honor, Hope, Gratitude, Rememberance, Peace and Eternal Rest."

He also expressed his gratitude to the men and women currently serving in the armed forces.

Sunday's ceremony included the Presentation of Wreaths and "Taps" with Masuk High School trumpeters and members of the Army National Guard.

Stephen Kallas, a Masuk senior, sang the "National Anthem" and fellow Masuk senior, Madison Caballero sang "American the Beautiful." The crowd also listened to the Stepney Elementary School Chorus perform "Salute to the Armed Forces."

First Selectman Steve Vavrek was on vacation, so Town Council Chairwoman Enid Lipeles gave the Welcome in his place.

Rev. Jennifer M. Gringas, senior pastor of Monroe Congregational Church, gave the Invocation and Benediction.

Members of the 2013 Memorial Day Parade Committee who made everything possible were:

Bob Tranzillo

Vida Stone

Jonathan Stone

Bernard Sippin

Teri Rotella

Richard Michel

Lt. Brian McCauley

Ray Ganser

Kevin Daly

James Bifulco

Marsha Beno

Jerome Rookasin, honorary chairman

and First Selectman Steve Vavrek


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