Enfield Veteran’s Award Ceremony Attracts Over 600 Guests

Senator Kissel hosts ceremony where over 400 veterans received medals of recognition

State Senator John A. Kissel (R-Enfield) yesterday hosted the Enfield Veterans’ Wartime Service Medal Ceremony at Enrico Fermi High School, where over four hundred veterans were recognized for their service. The auditorium at Fermi was at capacity with over 600 guests in attendance, including veterans and their families.

In 2005, the state legislature created the Connecticut Veterans’ Wartime Service Medal to honor all Connecticut veterans who have served their country. Eligible veterans include members of the military who served in a time of war and were Connecticut residents at the time they were called to active duty, or resident of the state on the date of the award. Medals were also given posthumously for veterans who died on or after January 1, 2000

“We can never do enough to honor the service men and women who have bravely given up so much defending our freedom,” said Sen. Kissel. “Yesterday’s turnout was incredible, but what was even more incredible to me was how deeply these veterans were touched by such a small act. Many of them have gone their whole lives without being recognized for their service and I was happy to play a role in finally giving them the recognition they so rightly deserve.”

Also in attendance was Connecticut Department of Veterans’ Affairs Commissioner Linda S. Schwartz who offered remarks on the importance of military service. Local town officials who participated in reading the names of medal recipients included Mayor Scott Kaupin, Chief of Police Carl Sferrazza, Fire Chief Earl Provencher, North Thompsonville Fire District 10, Enfield Town Councilman William “Red” J. Edgar Jr., Enfield Town Councilwoman Clemence Dumont, Enfield Town Councilwoman Carol Hall, Enfield Town Councilman Jake Keller, and Representative Karen Jarmoc. Rep. Kathleen Tallarita was unable to attend. Chairman of the Enfield Veterans Council, Ted J. Plamondon Jr., presented memoriam citations.

“This event was a huge success, and everyone who participated did a fabulous job,” said Sen. Kissel. “I can’t thank Fermi High School enough for letting us hold this event there and Commissioner Schwartz deserves a great deal of credit for her dedication to the causes of our state’s veterans.”