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Ry Ron P. Coderre
The Veteran’s Day ‘Celebrity Bartender” event hosted by American Legion Post #13 and Someplace Special Restaurant Nov. 12 was a mélange of emotions. From the hilarity and laughter encouraged by the guests behind the bar to the tears and memories elicited when honoring two Vietnam veterans, created an atmosphere of appreciation for the reason Americans celebrate the day by recognizing all vets who served and those who made the ultimate sacrifice of giving their lives for our freedom.
The focal point of the night came when Post Commander Walter LaRochelle presented plaques to two Vietnam vets, U.S. Navy vet Rick Carnahan and Army vet Norman “Barney” Seney.
The lineup of bartenders along with a raffle and auction, made the evening a huge financial success, raising $3,027. Thanks to local celebrity bartenders, Gary “O”, Dr. Biren Chokshi, attorney Tom Borner, Jeff Bousquet, Dave O’Gara, Laura Crosetti and Barney Seney, along with Channel 3 Bureau Chief Kevin Hogan and former Red Sox catcher Roger LaFrancois, the bartenders raised $1,560.
The raffle organized by Marine Corps veteran Mike Vassar and his wife Michelle of Someplace Special and run by Dee Carnahan, Donald Steinbrick, Joanne Joslin and Alan Joslin brought in $632, while the auction which featured game tickets and memorabilia grossed $835.
The evening began with a stirring rendition of the National Anthem by Post #13 member and U.S. Air Force veteran Maurice “Moe” Coderre and was capped with an equally compelling singing of America the Beautiful by Missy Lajoie.
“The success of the evening is primarily attributable to the great team work of all those who helped put the festivities together. We’re also thankful to those who attended. Most of all we’re proud to be able to recognize and honor all veterans on this special day,” said Commander LaRochelle.
Funds from the evening will be used to support scholarships to Boys and Girls State for Putnam High School students, a week at State Police Youth Academy for a local student, TriTown American Legion Baseball, presentation of Americanism programs in local schools and fulfillment of the Post’s pledge to the “Home At Last” Project for the homeless veteran’s facility in Jewett City.