By Madison Butkus
Hometown Weekly Reporter
The Walpole Council on Aging (COA) hosted a special Veterans’ Breakfast to honor those who served, and their respected families, in reverence for Veterans’ Day happening on Monday, November 11th.
The room was overflowing with honored veterans and those who are extremely grateful for their service to our country. Before being served their meals, attendees heard from Towns of Walpole & Medfield Veterans Service Officer Ian Rogers, who gave a brief speech to start the morning. He thanked all of the Veterans for their outstanding service and detailed some of the flyers that were being given out towards the front of the room.
These handouts included information on VA Healthcare systems, Veterans Burial Benefits, Massvets (Chapter 115) and more. Also on this table were gifts for each Veteran and/or surviving family member(s).
Once Rogers had concluded his speech, it was time for everyone to enjoy their delicious breakfast. Members of the Walpole Veterans’ Services Committee (VSC) helped serve each plate that consisted of scrambled eggs, hash browns, waffles, bacon and sausage. They additionally retrieved drinks for everyone including coffee, water and orange juice.
One specific member from the VSC, Stacy Murphy, was there letting Veterans and family members know about the Hometown Heroes Banner Program (HHBP). According to the application form, “The HHBP is intended to showcase and honor Veterans or active-duty members native to or current residents of Walpole.” Upon submitting a photo, as well as the application, those Veterans/active-service members would be honored around town through poster form on Veterans’ and Memorial Day.
“It really is an excellent way to honor all of those both serving or already served,” Murphy stated, “especially within our town. We are so appreciative for all they do and/or have done so this is just a special way to thank them for that.”
As the breakfast concluded, many could be seen mingling with one another, sharing stories and praise for the dedication Veterans have for our country. It can be said with ease that this breakfast was a great success and many are hopeful for this tradition to continue in the future.
For more information about the HHBP and how to apply, please email Stacy Murphy at [email protected].
