Date: November 11, 2023
Many thanks to Dee Sullivan, who provided content for this post.
The celebration of our veterans will begin in the Point’s Ballroom at 10:30 AM with a slide show created by David Marcus, showcasing Noble Pond Veterans. Mrs. Thalheimer and Mrs. Oliaccio, accompanied by members of Girl Scout Troop 90 & 1290, will hand out programs and poppies to the attendees, a symbol of remembrance and respect.
The formal opening ceremony will commence at 11:00 AM with a welcome from our Master of Ceremonies, Trisha White. In a display of discipline and respect, the CG Scout Troop 903G will prepare by reporting to the back of the room and standing at parade rest. This will be a prelude to the invocation which NPVA President, Joyce Jamison setting a reverent tone for the proceedings.
After the invocation, the presentation of colors will be executed with precision by Scout Troop 903G as the respond to Trish White’s commands. The troop will proceed with the flag presentation, leading into the National Anthem. Directly afterward, Girl Scout Troop 90 & 1290 will lead the Pledge of Allegiance, culminating in the posting of colors by Troop 903G, after which NPVA President Joyce Jamison will take center stage to present the NPVA Awards, including the NPVA President Award and NPVA Veteran of the Year.
A solemn moment of silence will then be observed in memory of Bruce Laberdee and all Noble Pond Veterans who have passed. A presentation of flowers to Mrs. Terry Laberdee will accompany a slide tribute, with the ringing of a bell by Girl Scout Troop 90 & 1290 to mark this moment of reflection.
Subsequently Tom Mehl will preside over the portion of the program recognizing the families of veterans. During this segment, Lucy Mehl will ensure the Scouts are ready to rearrange tables and cue the patriotic anthem “Proud to be an American.”
Patriotic music will then continue with a Military Service Medley providing a musical tribute to each branch of the military. Dee will command the Honor Guard, guiding the flag bearers through a procession that honors each military branch in turn. Veterans of each branch will stand upon hearing their service song.
Following the Military Service Medley, the Quilt of Valor presentation, led by Barbara Sansone, will recognize twelve distinguished veterans. Lucy Mehl and the Scouts will assist the honorees to their chairs.
The ceremony will draw towards a close with the Retrieval of Colors. Scout Troop 903G will carry out the retrieval with commands from Trisha White. This act will conclude the formal activities.
Trisha White will extend thanks and acknowledge the contributions of all the volunteers who played a pivotal role in the celebration and invite all present to partake in refreshments in the Conservatory where they can continue the celebration of our veterans in a more casual setting. Patti and Gail, with the dedicated assistance of Scout Troops 90, 1290, and 903G, will be on hand to ensure that guests are well taken care of and that the spirit of hospitality is as warm as the gratitude we hold for our veterans.
This time of mingling and refreshment also serves as a gentle reminder of the day’s purpose—to honor those who have given so much in service to our nation. As we enjoy the camaraderie and the comfort of good company, we remember to extend our personal thanks to each veteran, acknowledging their service and sacrifices.
Dee Sullivan wishes to acknowledge and thank all who have volunteered their time and effort to our Veterans Day celebration.