The Veterans Day ceremony in Kauneonga Lake on November 11 was officiated by Quartermaster of the Sergeant Andrew Brucher-Bailey Richmond VFW Post 5499 Howie Goldsmith, who introduced key speakers Town Supervisor Dan Sturm, County Legislator Matt McPhillips and Chaplain/Bugler Randy Peers. Andrew Brucher, for whom the VFW Post was named, was a Sergeant during the Viet Nam War who died in 1967. 

Sturm spoke on behalf of the members of the Bethel Town Board: “So today, on Veterans Day, we are here to give special thanks to all soldiers and veterans who have served us during both war and peace times. It is an appropriate time to come together to show appreciation to those who serve and have served.”

He continued with, “In the Town of Bethel, I have always made sure to look out and support our local Andrew Brucher VFW troop and all our local veterans’ events and causes. Together we are a grateful town and we thank you. We are in your debt, and our hearts are filled with respect, gratitude and thankfulness. We all stand here together today to honor all of you and your families.”

McPhillips continued the ceremony with “We think about what makes us great as a country.” He thanked those who join the military and “choose to give of themselves to help others.” 

“We should never forget how much you’ve given for our country and how much we owe you.”

Chaplain/Bugler Randy Peers thanked the audience for showing up and showing support. He called upon his Supreme Creator to “continue thy favor upon our honored” and to bestow “these and all necessary blessings.”

He asked for blessings upon widows and their children and to “grant that we may stand strong and brave – may thy good providence spare us from all harm.”

Before performing Taps on his bugle, he recited a closing prayer.