Hanson: “… this is a fitting tribute …”
HIGHLAND FALLS – Dozens gathered in Highland Falls Saturday to witness the unveiling of a special banner program begun by the Town of Highlands Chamber of Commerce to show appreciation for the community of veterans. Attendees also marked the occasion of Armed Forces Day, a national appreciation day for veterans across the country.
Speakers weighed in on how the U.S. honors the sacrifices its military makes each day, and whether or not the country does a good job in doing so.
Andrew Hanson, the retiring commander of U.S. Army Garrison at West Point,
said the ceremony was a fitting one.
“As we come up to Memorial Day here next week, this is a fitting tribute to those that give their lives in defense of the country and support of Veterans’ Day that are alive and did serve our country,” Hanson said.
USMA graduate John Dodson of Highland Falls, who served in the Army during the Vietnam War, was the first veteran to have a banner in his name hung up in the community. He said he was honored to see his name on the streamer.
“It was a complete surprise; I had no idea,” Dodson said. “My other half is on the village board, and I am sure she was an instigator of this. She told me I had to show up today and I didn’t know why.”
A total of 73 banners are expected to be on display in Highland Falls in the weeks ahead.
