Ridgefield Honors Veterans During Moving Ceremony

On Veterans Day, November 11, 2024, Ridgefield residents gathered at Veterans Memorial Garden in a heartfelt ceremony organized by American Legion Post 78 to honor the sacrifices of veterans locally and around the world.

A Day of Tribute and Reflection

George Besse, Commander of American Legion Post 78, led the ceremony with dedication and gratitude, recognizing the courage of "ordinary people who did extraordinary things" for the country. Besse introduced Deacon Rick Lawlor, “He was a first responder, saving lives, and now he is saving souls. Lawlor began, “Heavenly Father, we thank you for this beautiful day, we thank you and give praise to you for the many gifts in our lives.” He went on to say, “Today, we pause and pray and thank you for the gift of our veterans. The veterans have defended and built this great nation and they continue to serve and keep us safe from a most dangerous world."

The powerful voice of Mackenzi Macko followed, singing the National Anthem and filling the Memorial Garden with a sense of pride and patriotism.

Scotts Ridge 7th Grader Namya Chouhan Inspires at Veterans Day Ceremony: “We Are Here Because They Were There”

Ms. President US, a 7th-grade student at Scotts Ridge Middle School, Namya Chouhan addressed the Veterans Day Ceremony. “It is an incredibly important day, but to many kids my age, I know that Veterans Day is just another day off. Until not too long ago, it was that way for me too. But now, I know that Veteran's Day is so much more than just a day off from school. It’s a day when we honor those who served their country. They went through smoke and fire just to make sure that their country would not be undefended. Those brave men and women are heroes. They’re what we call Veterans, those we honor on Veterans Day.” Calling Veterans living legends, she continued, “Freedom is the gift our Veterans have given the country. We are here because they were there.” Namya saluted the Veterans as she departed the podium. 

Poetic Tribute and Words of Reflection

Ridgefield Poet Laureate Ira Joe Fisher spoke with moving poetry, capturing the essence of gratitude felt by all for the veterans who have served and sacrificed. Legionnaire Don Daughters added a poignant perspective, reminding attendees that many veterans were young when they left home, saying goodbye to everything they knew to become "brothers and sisters" in service.

Vice Commander George Gray, an Army veteran and Ridgefield’s American Legion Post 78 1st Vice Commander, delivered a powerful keynote address. Gray, who served during the Vietnam era, highlighted the ongoing challenges veterans face, particularly around mental health. He pointed to the tragic statistic that 18 veterans lose their lives to suicide each day, emphasizing the importance of reaching out and offering support. “Becoming a veteran is something that must be earned and can’t be taken away,” he said, reminding everyone that Post 78 stands ready to assist any veteran in need.

Honoring Medal of Honor Recipient Capt. Paul W. Bucha

First Selectman Rudy Marconi reverently spoke about Ridgefield’s own Medal of Honor recipient, Retired U.S. Army Capt. Paul W. Bucha who passed away this year. A West Point graduate and Vietnam War hero, Bucha was awarded the Medal of Honor for his leadership and bravery during an intense battle in Vietnam. In March 1968, after leading his company in an operation against a North Vietnamese stronghold, Bucha helped his pinned-down men by directing helicopter evacuations, distributing ammunition, and calling in support throughout the night. He later rescued soldiers cut off from the main company, exemplifying extraordinary courage and commitment to his comrades.

Bucha’s legacy extends far beyond the battlefield. He has spent his life advocating for veterans’ mental health, particularly those affected by PTSD, and promoting employment and transition programs to help veterans re-integrate into civilian life. Marconi ended his tribute by calling on attendees to honor Bucha’s legacy by caring for veterans with the same dedication Bucha has shown.

Laying of the Wreath and Taps

To conclude the ceremony, Cub Scout Pack 74 laid a wreath on the memorial monument, followed by the solemn playing of taps. 

We salute our Veterans today and every day.