It’s tradition every Veterans Day to commemorate our active duty, retired and deceased military men and women. It’s a time to reflect on what it means to live in a democratic society and the people that were or are willing to sacrifice everything to protect and defend the principles of freedom.
Mattapoisett held such a ceremony at Old Hammondtown School shortly after the tolling of the bells at the Congregational Church, noting the end of World War I on the 11th day, of the 11th month, of the 11th hour.
The day’s ceremony was hosted by the American Legion Florence Eastman Post 280, and the Tri-Town Veteran’s Office led by agent Chris Gerrior. Providing a lyrically significant note were members of Showstoppers Performing Arts group, who sang the “Star Spangled Banner” and the emotive “Bless Our Troops.”
Serving as standard bearers for the posting of colors were Boy Scouts from Rochester Troop 31. Hadley Perron led the Pledge of Allegiance, Chaplain Langhoff led the group in prayer, and Geneva Gerrior read the governor’s proclamation. Veteran Raymond Hanks announced Mattapoisett’s inclusion as a Purple Heart community and emerging plans for recognition of Revolutionary War veterans buried in the town.
Taking the podium as guest speaker was Dr. David Vacchi, whose military career includes 20 years of active duty including the Iraq war. His military awards include Legion of Merit, a Bronze Star and seven awards for meritorious service. Vacchi is a lifetime member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Vacchi began his comments by sharing that he had always wanted to be of service to others; it was paramount in his early development and continues to this day.
His transition from military duties to helping veterans transitioning back into civilian life, included returning to school for higher education opportunities. His book “Straight Talk for Veterans” is a guide for veterans navigating what can be very choppy waters in a civilian world that oftentimes simply cannot understand what a veteran is going through physically and mentally.
Vacchi said that supporting veterans even in the smallest way is critical, including simply saying thank you. He now responds to those thanking him for his service with the kind retort, “Thank you for the support.”
Another way Vacchi said veterans can be supported is by simply talking to them. He acknowledged that the majority of veterans, especially those who have battlefield experience, don’t want to talk about those memories. Vacchi said it is important to start off slowly, asking about what they ate, where they slept, small, nontraumatic bits and pieces that may eventually lead to memories that can finally be released, being absorbed into yesterday, no longer damaging today.
“We need to hear those stories,” he said.
Representative William Straus offered that more than being thankful for a veteran’s service we should say we “appreciate” their service. “Appreciation conveys more than just gratitude, it says we value their service, it has worth,” said Straus.
Town of Mattapoisett Veterans Day
By Marilou Newell