This article was originally written by Taylor Gregory for The Reading Observer.
Watch the full ceremony on the RCTV Youtube page.
Hundreds of residents gathered at Memorial Park on a chilly Veterans Day morning to honor the men and women who have served our country. Despite the cold (and even a few snowflakes), the crowd stood together in gratitude and reflection during a heartfelt ceremony organized by the Reading Veterans Services Office.
Town Manager Matt Kraunelis opened the event, followed by Reading Director of Veterans Services Will Valliere, who offered welcoming words before Chaplain Col. (Ret.) Lawrence Bazer delivered the invocation. The Reading Memorial High School (RMHS) Choir performed a moving rendition of the National Anthem.
Select Board Chair Chris Haley reflected on the Board’s renewed tradition of reciting the Pledge of Allegiance during Select Board meetings to honor veterans, reminding attendees of the “solemn duty to never take our rights for granted.” Select Board Vice Chair Melissa Murphy followed with the reading of the Governor’s Veterans Day Proclamation.
The ceremony’s guest speaker, Father Steven Zukas, shared his family’s story of Lithuanian immigration and his own experience serving in the U.S. Navy from 1980 to 1984 as a machinist mate, ensuring water and power on his ship. He reflected on the bravery of all service members who step forward without knowing what conditions they will face.
The RMHS Choir performed God Bless America before Mark Terry of the Good Samaritan Lodge reminded attendees that for every person pushing the nuclear button, there are 5 to 10 noncombat veterans supporting vital operations – from cooks to communications officers.
During the branches’ flag-raising ceremony, veterans from multiple generations proudly raised their service flags, representing the Korean War, Vietnam, and Iraq. Families and children watched as loved ones stood to be recognized.
The Good Samaritan Lodge, which donated the flag poles last year, also provided the flags for this year’s service. The event concluded with Will Valliere skipping his closing remarks to get out of the cold.
A morning of unity and remembrance, Reading’s Veterans Day ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the enduring gratitude of the community.
