Civil War monument offers chance to reflect on nation's past

DERBY - Since it's Memorial Day weekend I thought I'd post a photo of a war memorial monument that has graced the Green facing Elizabeth Street for more than 125 years.

The monument is flanked by four 11-foot long cannons. 

You can read more here about the history of the monument. It features a bronze statue of a Civil War soldier atop a granite pedestal.


Full disclosure: I drove down Elizabeth Street Saturday after covering a ceremony at the Storm Engine Company firehouse to dedicate a park on O'Sullivan's Island in memory of the one and only Edward J. Cotter, Jr.

Since it was raining pretty steadily I rolled down the window and snapped photos from the driver's seat.

The front of the monument faces Elizabeth Street.

I plan to take better photos of the monument someday when it's not raining! 

Vietnam War vigil stirs emotions

I attended a Vietnam War vigil Saturday sponsored by No Vet Left Behind, Inc., a non-profit organization based in our hometown of Ansonia, Ct.
Founders George and Mary Porter of Derby, Ct. have made it their life's work to do what they can to assist needy veterans.
The vigil was part of the non-profit organization's Memorial Day weekend celebration, which included a six-mile "Warrior Spirit/Ruck March."
I wrote a story about the event, which you can read here. I took several photos, and the one above was published with the story.

Below you see the solemn ceremony held when the first "POW," portrayed by a Vietnam veteran, was replaced by a second "POW," who also served in Vietnam.
They sat blindfolded, on the ground in a replica of a bamboo cage for an hour, in memory of POWs from Connecticut.
When the second man started his hour-long term, participants joined hands and formed a circle around the cage. They swayed back and forth as Billy Joel's 1982 song, "Good Night Saigon" played.

May we never forget their sacrifice

I wish everyone a happy and safe Memorial Day holiday today.

May we never forget the sacrifices so many made

I want to thank those brave men and women from all wars who have paid the ultimate price for our country. We Americans are able to enjoy our freedom because of their courage and sacrifice. Let freedom ring!