PUTNAM — The Mayotte-Viens American Legion Post #13 of Putnam is once again remembering veterans with a Celebrity Bartender and Veterans Remembrance event at J.D. Cooper’s Restaurant on the eve of Veteran’s Day, Monday, Nov. 10.  According to Post Commander Rick Carnahan, WWII veterans Armand J. Jolly and Robert F. Clemens will be the special guests of honor.

Jolly, a U.S. Navy veteran, served aboard the destroyer/minesweeper USS Emmons 457, from 1942 through the end of the war in 1945.  The USS Emmons was part of numerous invasions, including Africa, Italy and Normandy, where it was 1000 feet off shore in support of the invading troops.  While taking part in the Pacific Theater near the island of Okinawa, the USS Emmons was hit by five kamikaze aircraft in which 70 of the men on board were killed in action.  Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class Jolly was one of the survivors.

Clemens, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, served from Dec. 23, 1943, to Aug. 5,1946.  Clemens, who was discharged with the rank of Corporal, was a member of Co. D 5th Motor Transportation Battalion of the 5th Marine Division, which played an integral role in securing the key island of Iwo Jima.  Corporal Clemens, who was scheduled to spend two days on Iwo Jima was there for 37 days during the intense battle for the island.  He is the oldest member of American Legion Post #13 in length of service to the organization. 

Through the efforts of American Legion Post # 13 Commander Carnahan and the members of the unit, Putnam area, these veterans will be celebrated at Celebrity Bartender Night.  This is the fourth year that the Post has held the event.  Last year the evening raised more than $3,500 in support of Post #13 youth activities, such as Boys and Girls State, State Police Youth Leadership Program, Americanism programs in area schools and the TriTown American Legion Baseball Program.  The Post also supports the Home At Last Campaign for homeless veterans and this year initiated a scholarship for a local graduating high school senior.

“The evening is our way of thanking all veterans from Northeastern Connecticut who’ve ever served our country.  We’re also proud of the opportunity to pause and honor local veterans who, in a special way were part of our proud military heritage,” said Carnahan.

“The Celebrity Bartender portion of the evening allows us to raise funds for the youth activities associated with the National American Legion programs. We’re thankful for the local and statewide celebrities who take timeout of their busy schedules to make this night a success,” he added.

The evening begins at 5 p.m. and concludes at 9.  Former Boston Red Sox catcher Roger LaFrancois, WFSB Channel 3 news personality Kevin Hogan and other noted celebrities are scheduled to be on hand once again to greet and serve patrons.  Also scheduled to take turns behind the bar are local radio personality Gary “O” of WINY Radio, President of Putnam Bank Tom Borner, Laura Crosetti, Jeff Bousquet, and Commander Carnahan.  Other local personalities may join in the evening’s festivities.

“Last year’s event was a huge success.  We’re hoping that people will once again see the worthiness of the event and drop by to salute Armand Jolly and Bob Clemens and other veterans who may be on hand.” said Carnahan.

Prior to honoring Jolly and Clemens, U.S. Air Force veteran Maurice “Moe” Coderre will offer a rendition of the National Anthem.

“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 G. David Landry of J.D. Cooper’s Restaurant. 

Working with Carnahan on the organizing committee are Legionnaires, Donald Steinbrick, Marc Coderre, Sarah Hamby, Walter LaRochelle and David Smutnick.

 

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