A Veterans Day Ceremony On Stepney Green's Monday

American Legion posts from Monroe and Easton will commemorate Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11, on the Stepney Green at 11 a.m. Tony Unger, commander of the Charles L. Ruman Post 160 in Easton, will officiate the ceremony.

Victor Yanosy commands the Sippin-Winspur Post 176 in Monroe.

Donna O'Hara will sing the National Anthem, speakers include Dan Debicella and State Sen. John McKinney and a presentation will be made by a contingent of the Canadian Armed Forces.

The Girl Scouts of Easton will serve a luncheon after the ceremony at the Easton Senior Center to acknowledge the Veterans.

The public is encouraged to attend and acknowledge the Veterans contributions and sacrifices.

The Save Our Stepney Task Force, will place 13 American flags on the green to commemorate its Flags Over Stepney program. The American flags are flown  for each of the nation's six patriotic events; Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day and Labor Day, September 11 and Veterans Day.  In addition to the American flags, a flag will be flown for each branch of the United States armed services.

Flags Over Stepney is a community spirit project designed to enhance and beautify the green as an expression of patriotism. The Save Our Stepney Task Force expresses its gratitude to the individuals and companies who sponsor the flags provide donations to its efforts.

Veterans Day is dedicated to all U.S. service men and women. President Dwight D. Eisenhower coined the name in 1954, changing the prior title of Armistice Day, one it held since 1919 when it was named to commemorate the end of World War I.

A stone boulder with a plaque is located on the Stepney green at the base of the flagpole. The monument was "erected by the people of Monroe" in the 1930’s. Twenty-four men and two women, the Misses Eleanor and Katherine Habersham, served in World War I. Two men would not return – George Bachman and Leonard Fuller.

The bronze plaque includes the names of 24 men who served in World War I and the inscription reads: In grateful recognition of the valor and devotion of the young men of this community who served in the World War for Liberty and justice." 1914-1919.