Westminster, VT – Kurn Hattin Homes for Children welcomed local veterans, family members, and supporters to its annual Veterans Day Remembrance Ceremony and luncheon on November 11, in recognition of the signing of the Armistice Treaty of 1918. The program included the Presentation of Colors; the Pledge of Allegiance, patriotic music from the Kurn Hattin band and singers, and opening remarks from Executive Director Stephen Harrison.

Kurn Hattin School Principal Amanda Tyrrell, was invited to share her personal experiences as a friend and loved one of veterans who have served the country.

She shared a letter from Mark Dooley, a fallen Vermont soldier and family friend, who wrote a letter to his family to be opened if he did not return home. It read: “Remember that my leaving was in the service of something that we love, and be proud. The best way to pay respect is to value why a sacrifice was made.”

To the veterans in attendance, Principal Tyrrell said, “Thank you for the things you and your families carried while serving, and the things you still carry today. My husband Dan, 1st Lt. of the 131st Engineers IED hunters, based in Balad, Iraq, carried many things with him while serving our country. He carried strength and courage, wisdom and faith, unwavering dedication to do what was best for his soldiers, and a commitment to protect all who needed protection, regardless of who they were. He carried my love and the love of his children and family.

“Some of the heaviest things a soldier may carry are the things they have lost: a brother in arms, a wife, the opportunity to hold a newborn child. Some lose the feeling of connection to others, some lose motivation, and others lose the feeling of accomplishment.

“However, in the midst of loss, our soldiers carry and share with us hope, strength, the ideals they have fought for, an example of how to be courageous in the face of adversity, how to love and be loved, and a perseverance that is beyond measure. We at Kurn Hattin salute you.”

At the luncheon following the Retirement of Colors, Vermont resident Bill Lindsay, who is retired from the Army National Guard, expressed his gratitude at being invited to this event. Especially moved by the children’s musical performances he said, “This experience brings back memories of my days playing the tuba in the Army band at Fort Dix. I’ve always loved music, and when I had the choice, I chose to play in the band. I’m so glad to see such a strong emphasis on music here at Kurn Hattin. It’s an important part of education and I’m sure it will serve them well in the future.”

This annual event honors and celebrates the courage, strength, and contributions of veterans, and offers the Kurn Hattin community an opportunity to express their gratitude. Thank you to everyone who made this event memorable for those who served in the United States armed forces.

If you are a veteran from the Westminster, Vermont area and would like to attend next year’s event, please contact Heather at (802) 721-6916 or hlonge@kurnhattin.org.

About Kurn Hattin

Since 1894, Kurn Hattin Homes for Children, located in Westminster, VT, has helped thousands of children and their families by offering a safe home and quality education in a nurturing environment.