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The Mayotte-Viens American Legion Post #13 of Putnam is once again remembering veterans with its fourth successive Celebrity Bartender Night. This year’s event will take place at J.D. Cooper’s Restaurant in Putnam on Veteran’s Day, Monday, November 11. According to Post Commander Walter LaRochelle, the Post will honor a World War II veteran and posthumously remember a Vietnam veteran.
Through the efforts of American Legion Post # 13 Commander LaRochelle and the members of the unit, Putnam area veterans will be celebrated at Celebrity Bartender Night, while remembering all area veterans who have served our country. In the first three years of the event the Post has raised a total of more than $7500 in support of The Home at Last facility for homeless veterans in Jewett City and youth activities associated with the American Legion, such as Boys’ and Girls’ State and the TriTown American Legion Baseball Program.
“The evening is our way of thanking and remembering all veterans from Northeastern Connecticut who have served in defense of our country. It’s also an opportunity for the Post to raise funds in support of area youth programs,” said Commander LaRochelle.
“We were exploring ways to raise funds for the youth activities associated with the National American Legion and came up with this idea. We contacted a number of veterans and a few State and local celebrities and came up with this evening,” concluded LaRochelle.
The Post is honoring World War II United States Navy veteran Robert Harris of Putnam. A former Putnam resident and Vietnam War hero Calvin Heath will be honored posthumously. His brother Bert, also a Vietnam era veteran will be on hand to accept the plaque on behalf of the family.
The evening begins at 5 p.m. and concludes at 9 p.m. Former Boston Red Sox catcher and current minor league hitting instructor for the St. Louis Cardinals Roger LaFrancois will be serving patrons and signing autographs throughout the evening. Joining LaFrancois are local radio personality Gary “O” and his team of Kerensa Konesni and John Wilbur; Putnam Bank President Tom Borner along with members of the Board Paul Kelly and Dick Loomis; Jeff Bousquet of Bousquet’s Appliance; Brad Favreau President of the Putnam Rotary Club; and Jeff Rawson of the Putnam Business Association. Other local celebrities are also scheduled to be on hand to greet and serve patrons.
“Our first three events were successful, as many people turned out to say thanks to the men and women who have honorably served our country. We’re hoping that people will once again see the worthiness of the event and drop by to salute the veterans who may be on hand.” noted LaRochelle.
The night will include a raffle and auction. Among the items being auctioned are a framed autographed Seattle Mariners jersey signed by Edgar Martinez, framed autographed photos of Boston Red Sox third baseman Will Middlebrooks and former Yankee All Star Gary Sheffield, a Tom Menard signed painting with gift certificate for framing from Arts & Framing in Putnam and many other items.
Post #13 initiated a new program two years ago, which provides weekly Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force Times to the Putnam Public Library. The newspapers are placed in the library lobby weekly and are free to readers and veterans.
“The free newspaper program has been a hit with local vets who visit the library. The reading material is scooped up almost as quickly as it arrives. It’s the Post’s way of giving back to vet’s in the area,” said Air Force Veteran Ronald P. Coderre, who coordinates the weekly program.
“J.D. Cooper’s is honored to host this event for the veterans. Having celebrities on hand will certainly add luster to the festivities. This is a special day and a special event. We’re hoping to have a good turnout in honor of the men and women who have served and defended our freedom,” said David Landry, J.D. Cooper’s owner.
Working with LaRochelle on the organizing committee are Legionnaires, Donald Steinbrick, Ron Coderre, Sarah Hamby, Barney Seney, Dick Turcotte, Michael Vassar, Marc Coderre and Rick Carnahan.