To the Editor:

Westerlo’s Hometown Heroes Committee has planned its annual Banner Closing Ceremony. The ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, Nov 1, at 2 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Westerlo.

The event pays tribute to all new banner recipients for 2025 and honors all our veterans and first responders. This year’s event is made even more special with a medal award ceremony.

Two Vietnam veterans will be presented with medals earned as a result of the conflict. The event also will feature the elite drill team, Shock Platoon, from Norwich University; guest speakers; and refreshments. The entire community is invited to join us for this moving and honoring event, free of charge.

Additionally, the committee will be hosting its annual Veterans Day Sunset Service in Veterans Garden located in Veterans Memorial Park at 950 County Route 401 in Westerlo. The brief service will begin at 5 p.m.  The service will be a unique sunset ceremony honoring all who have and are currently serving in our country’s armed forces. This year’s guest speaker will be Scott Leslie, SFC (USA Ret), director of the Albany County Veterans Service Bureau

The committee has been working hard to recognize and honor all who have committed to make sacrifices for their country and community. We hope we will see you all at our events.

We welcome questions by calling or emailing us. Amie Burnside, chairperson, 518-396-8787; Lisa DeGroff, 518-396-0350, .

Dates to remember:

— Nov. 1:  Westerlo Hometown Heroes Banner Closing Ceremony; and

— Nov. 11: Veterans Day Sunset Service.

With gratitude to our veterans and first responders,

Amie Burnside

Chairwoman, Westerlo Hometown Heroes