Legion Post
to celebrate
its 100th
anniversary
The Mayotte-Viens American Legion Post #13 of Putnam will celebrate its 100th Anniversary July 7 in ceremonies beginning at St. Mary Cemetery on Providence Street in Putnam and concluding with a program and reception at the Black Dog Restaurant on Park Street in Putnam.
According to Post Commander Brian D. Maynard, the ceremony at the cemetery will begin at 12:30 p.m. and will take place at the grave sites of Father Anselm J. Mayotte and George R. Viens.  The program will include a blessing by St. Mary of the Visitation Pastor The Very Rev. David Choquette, military honors and a tribute to both men.
Mayotte gave his life during WWI in 1918 when he succumbed to pneumonia caused by the conditions he encountered while serving as an Army chaplain for the troops on the front lines.
Viens, who was a Marine, lost his life during WWII while serving on Guadalcanal.  He died at the hands of a Japanese sniper’s bullet.
“This is a great moment for our Post as we celebrate our centennial.  However, we don’t want to forget the two brave men for whom our Post is named.  These men gave their lives in defense of our country so that we as Americans enjoy the freedom we do today,” said Maynard.
Following the ceremony at the cemetery, the program will adjourn to the Black Dog Restaurant where the program will continue, commemorating the 100-year history of the Post.  The event will include words from local, state and national dignitaries.  Dignitaries from the American Legion Department of Connecticut and National American Legion are expected to be on hand to share their memories and thoughts.
Also included on the program will be comments by Post Commander Maynard, Putnam Mayor Norman “Barney” Seney, State Representatives Rick L. Hayes and Pat Boyd.  A reception follows.
“We’re hoping that the people of Putnam and the area will join us as we honor the memory of Anselm Mayotte and George Viens and celebrate our distinguished history.  We are proud that we’ve been an integral part of the Putnam community for 100 years,” concluded Commander Maynard.
The American Legion was founded on March 15, 1919 in Paris, France.  American Legion Post #13 was one of the first Post to be established in Connecticut and the country on July 7, 1919.

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