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Veterans gather on the Town Green

By Erin O'Connor

Staff Writer



WESTFIELD "Today we are gathering here to support the troops that are supporting the community. There is a big turnout with the veterans of Westfield and the community. God bless America and all our troops that are over there to protect it," Don Wieglus, key organizer for a "Veterans on the Green" event and member of the American Legion said to Reminder Publications.

On October 7 members of the community joined with local veterans on the Westfield Green and said they were gathering for the purpose of showing support for men and women who are serving in the United States and abroad in the Armed Forces.

Members of the Westfield American Legion Post 124 were on hand answering questions for those interested in joining a veterans group.

"This is something that is being done because we [American Legion] have received numerous letter and e-mails from people asking us to do something for the troops," Wieglus said.

"We are not here to support the war. We are here to support the troops that have left their communitites to support our country," Wieglus said. "They are there because they do not want terrorism in this country and they are protecting our freedoms over there."

Wieglus is involved with the Westfield Marines Corps, the American Legion Post 124 and the Veterans of Foriegn Wars Post 1847.

More information, about veterans' services can be obtained by calling Don Wielgus at 568-7767.

"We are here to support our families and let everyone know that the war is still going on and we are supporting our men and women overseas. It seems like people tend to forget," Lisa Potito said.

Potito's husband is a soldier who has recently returned home. Potito participates in various volunteer groups and family readiness programs for military families. She is also involved in Operation Military Kids in Westfield.