Korean/Vietnam-Era Veterans Honored In Simsbury

SIMSBURY, CT — A large throng of area veterans visited Simsbury on Monday as state and town officials honored Korean War-era and Vietnam War-era veterans.

The large throng gathered at Henry James Memorial School for a ceremony hosted by Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Ron Welch, and Simsbury First Selectman Wendy Mackstutis, among other dignitaries.

Those attending were presented with citations and pins, as well as commendations from U.S. Rep. Jahanna Hayes, D-5th District.

Speaking at the event was Mackstutis, who said the veterans showed "courage, integrity, and strength."

"Many of you left Simsbury or a hometown like it, to serve in an unknown country far from home. I can’t imagine what that was like for you, your families, and your friends," she said. "But you answered the call.

"Simsbury is proud to have you as part of the fabric of our community. For that, I want to again say thank you."

Helping with the ceremony were American Legion Tomalonis-Hall Post 84, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1926, and the Abigail Phelps Chapter of the DAR.