Belchertown and Ludlow to host Veterans Day ceremoniesDate: 11/3/2022 LUDLOW/BELCHERTOWN – Veterans Day is on Nov. 11 and both Ludlow and Belchertown will be hosting events during the day to honor and support those who served.
Ludlow’s Veteran Service Director Eric Segundo said on Nov. 11 at 10 a.m. in the Ludlow High School auditorium, all residents are invited to take part in a ceremony to honor the local veterans.
Those who served will be honored and there will be award presentations for veteran of the year and the winners for the Patriot’s Pen and Voice of Democracy will also be announced.
Other awards that will be announced are Teacher of the Year, Organization of the Year, Business of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and children and youth awards.
There will also be guest speakers including legislators and town officials.
Segundo added, “I hope that everyone takes a few minutes out of their day to recognize and appreciate the services of our veterans.”
Belchertown Veterans’ Agent Charly Olivia announced that the towns Veterans Day event will take place on Nov. 11 in the Belchertown High School auditorium.
The ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. with the ringing of the bell and will also include performances from the schools’ band and choruses, remarks from government officials and a guest speaker.
Olivia said, “I’m looking to have the community join us in celebrating our veterans past, present and future. I hope to have a well-attended, enjoyable event by and for our community. The local students make theses ceremonies so wonderful. I hope we have a great crowd to hear them play and sing.”
The guest speaker will be Michael Erard who is a Belchertown resident and Vietnam War combat medic.
Olivia added, “I also greatly look forward to hearing Mr. Erard speak and am certain the community will enjoy him as well. He is a humble, kind man who lives right here in town with his wonderful wife. I’d wager his neighbors have no idea they are living next to a hero – a lifesaver. I’ve had the privilege of speaking with him on numerous occasions and have read a few pieces he’s written. We’re very lucky to have him with us for this year’s ceremony.”
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