On Sept. 14, Bernardston rededicated its Veterans Memorial in Cushman Park. Under a warm late summer sun, we paid tribute to Bernardston veterans with the addition of a new stone which will reflect the names of those who have served since the monument was originally dedicated in 2002. There were many people involved in the program and I wish to offer a public acknowledgement of their participation.

The Bernardston Veterans Organization, who had sponsored a new granite bench was on hand to provide a color guard, 21-gun salute and taps. A group of Cub Scouts from Pack 3 read the names of 16 Bernardston vets killed in action. Alana Martineau provided a stirring rendition of the national anthem, Don Lacoy in addition to doing sound sang Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind.” The Falltown String Band provided additional music. Former Bernardston selectman Stan Garland and Deputy Director Stacey Geneczko of the Upper Valley Veterans Office in Greenfield offered some appropriate words for the occasion in their prepared remarks. Sue Shedd provided a reading of a letter left at the Vietnam Memorial in Washington D.C.

I was especially pleased to have Congressman Jim McGovern and State Rep. Natalie Blais on hand. Jim spoke passionately about the importance of honoring our vets in programs such as these but also about the need to make sure that we take care of our vets when they return home and that they receive the respect that should be accorded them. In addition, he urged that politics be set aside and legislation like the PACT Act be supported in Congress. I was pleased to have two members of the Der family on hand as we dedicated a granite bench in honor of their mother Ada Andrews. We also honored long-time Bernardston historian Louella Atherton with a granite bench. Thanks to all who attended this program.

Marvin Shedd, Danny Shedd, Stan Garland, Veterans Memorial Committee

Bernardston