The Peru Gazette

By John T. Ryan

Peru VFW Post 309 upheld its mission of honoring our nation’s veterans and offering hospitality to the public at today’s Memorial Day ceremonies (Click here for more photos). Post Commander Thomas W. Fusco welcomed everyone who turned out for the ceremonies. County Legislator Keith Defayette spoke about the importance of never forgetting our nation’s veterans. He said, “It is good that you have remembered the true reason for celebrating Memorial Day.” Defayette said he will not be a County Legislator next Memorial Day, but he will still attend these ceremonies. Peru Town Supervisor Peter Glushko recalled the over million service personnel who have given the ultimate sacrifice in our nation’s wars and the fact that each one of them had loved ones who shared in their sacrifice. He said Memorial Day services began in 1882 when the first Declaration Day was celebrated. Glushko recited a poem which he said was written by a Connecticut elementary student.

Red, white and blue
For those we knew
Who marched off to war.
We honor them now
And show them how
Their bravery we can’t ignore.

Heroes of war,
They were so much more,
Father and brother and friend.
Flags at half-mast
For those of the past
To whom our gratitude we send.

We place flowers on the graves
Of those who were brave,
We salute them far and wide.
Seeing poppies galore
While our hearts soar,
remembering proudly those who have died.

Several people made the VFW services a success. Members of the James P. O’Connor Composite Squadron Color Corps posted the Colors; Reverend Alan Shnob led the prayers; Post Commander Fusko, Quartermaster Richard Dabrowski and Ladies Auxiliary President Peggy Matteau read the names of deceased members. Sr. Vice-Commander John Mashtare, Jr. Vice-Commander Gaylon LeCuyer, Officer of the Day Ron LaDuke and Ladies Auxiliary President Peggy Mateau laid wreaths and Lynn Wilke played taps. Following the ceremonies the Ladies Auxiliary served a delicious luncheon.