Continuing a proud annual tradition in Manchester Township, our hometown United States Service Members were honored during a moving Veterans Day ceremony at Town Hall on November 11, 2022.
“Today we honor and celebrate those who served and returned home, and their families, and their service. We can thank the millions of Americans who strengthen our nation with their example of service and sacrifice,” said Mayor Robert Hudak during his keynote address. “Long after their discharge, many of our veterans continue to contribute to our community,” the Mayor continued, noting that many transitioned to roles of service as First Responders.
Roger P. Grenier, chairman of Manchester Township’s Veterans Advisory Committee, offered opening remarks and presented pins to those Veterans in attendance. Arthur M. Wright Jr., Veterans Advisory Committee Commander, Whiting American Legion Post 502, also offered his thoughts regarding the sacrifices families make in support of their loved ones who serve.
It was a moving morning of musical remembrances, featuring bagpiper John Giblin, who performed “America the Beautiful” and the “Military Medley” in honor of each branch of service. Marisiya Goins offered a stirring rendition of the “National Anthem,” while John Huetz, Mary Huetz, and Joey Arcilla performed “Let There be Peace” and “Amazing Grace.” To close the ceremony, Jurissa DeOcampo performed “Taps.”
Rev. David Rittinger, Whiting Bible Church, offered the Invocation and Benediction. Veterans in attendance were honored with certificates commemorating their decorated service presented by Geri Oliverie Hennicke of Oliverie Funeral Home. Elected officials including Township Council President Joan Brush, Council Vice President Michelle Zolezi, and Councilman James Vaccaro, were pleased to accept a commemorative Veterans book prepared by Mrs. Oliverie Hennicke that will be kept in Town Hall for all to view. Additionally, the family of Ret. US Army Sgt. Michael A. Kozyra, a Veterans Advisory Committee member who recently passed, accepted a Proclamation in recognition of his honorable service.
On behalf of Mayor Hudak and the Township Council, Manchester Township is grateful to everyone who attended and participated in creating such a memorable ceremony honoring our Veterans. This annual tradition holds significant meaning to all of our local Veterans, as well as our Manchester community that gathers to honor their service.
A very special thank you goes to Manchester Recreation and our Veterans Advisory Committee for organizing this annual tradition, and to Buildings and Grounds for staging the event. Additionally, thank you to the Manchester Police, Manchester Division of Emergency Services, Whiting Fire Company Sta. 33, Ridgeway Vol. Fire Co. #1 Sta. 34, and Manchester Volunteer Fire Department Sta 32 for supporting our Veterans. A special thank you goes out to Cub Scout Pack 44, as well as Boy Scout Troops 350, 570, and 571.