SOMERS, N.Y. -- An array of Somers community groups gathered Tuesday morning to honor veterans.
The Veterans Day ceremony was held at Ivendell Cemetery in downtown Somers. Several veterans were present for the ceremony, along with groups including Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, the Somers Lions Club and the League of Women Voters.
Attendees sat and stood in a circular gathering around a memorial at the cemetery.
“To all our veterans, we have a simple yet heartfelt message: thank you," said Somers Supervisor Rick Morrissey. "Thank you for your unwavering service in peacetime and in war, here in this nation and throughout the world.”
Larry Kaufman, commander of Jewish War Veterans Post 46 in Somers, read an essay.
“When the last soldier passes on, when the uniforms we wore are retired, and the final grave filled, we will remember all who served and sacrificed for our mission," he said. "Until then, may the almighty watch over our soldiers and our veterans. Renew their courage, rebuild their strength, heal their wounds, bind their hearts with your steadfast love. Remember them, bless them, sustain them and give them peace.”
Westchester County Legislator Michael Kaplowitz, who represents Somers, said “Our gathering here today, Veterans' Day 2014, is proof positive that we as a society appreciate their sacrifice and devotion and that we shall always remain in their indebtedness for their past and future service.”
Maria Pereira, a Peekskill resident whose son serves in the Air Force, praised veterans for serving.
“Thank you so very much for your service and dedication to our country,” she said.
Pereira was joined by a trio of the city's pageant winners. They were Samantha D'Cunha, who is Miss Peekskill; Sophia Pereira, who is Miss Peekskill Teen; and Alexis Fernandes, who is Little Miss Peekskill.
Dan Simpson performed two lively renditions of "The Star Spangled Banner" and "God Bless America." Clergy who were present included the Rev. Sandy Key, who gave the invocation, and Rabbi Fred Schwalb, who delivered the benediction.
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