GWOT Monument Rededication

As Commander of American Legion POST 35 in the Hamptons, I have the solemn responsibility of overseeing the annual dedication of our GWOT Memorial. Ever since our first dedication on September 11th 2006, our annual observance has become as significant as our Memorial Day and Veterans Day observances. Perhaps more so, due to the fact, that we actually have the families of the fallen present.

The dedication took place on Friday, September 11, 2009 at 6:00 p.m. at the American Legion Post 35 Hall at 69 High Street in Hampton. This unique monument has the names of all the Veterans from the State of New Hampshire who have lost their lives in the GWOT since 09/11/01 engraved in the chronological order of their passing.

It is not an easy task, looking into the eyes of the mothers and fathers, siblings and wives, and sometimes, the children of the fallen. But this is exactly what we have done since 2006. Our little “Post on , the Coast” has represented our Legion well, both here in our State, and indeed in our Nation. And this year was especially well represented by our Legion. For this year, it was an All Legion list of speakers.

Starting with our longtime Post 35 Chaplain, John Holman.- Chaplain Holman read a beautiful Invocation that was specifically written for this special day. Holman’s prayer was followed by one of our Legion member’s talented singer/ soloist daughter, Elaine Weatherby. Elaine sang a stirring rendition of our National Anthem.

The opening remarks by Commander Fatello touched upon the results of that terrible day 8 years ago. September 11, 2001. And how the events of that day, affected each and every person present, as well as those names engraved on the monument.

The monument was then unveiled by Post 35 Officers Sgt At Arms George Masten and Post Finance Officers John Barvenik. The “Keepers of the Stone.”

Our Governor the Honorable John Lynch gave a wonderful speech. Gov. Lynch has been to every GWOT observance, and he truly is a wonderful caring individual. Gov. Lynch takes the time each year to speak with all the family members present. His compassion and warmth is evident as he listens to each family member who has lost a loved one in the GWOT.

Next up was Legion Post 16 Commander Kent Nolan who read a statement from Senator Judd Gregg. Senator was in session that day and could not be there. But he was well represented by Commander Nolan.

Each year we have had the honor of having our State Legion Department Commander be one of our guest speakers. This year was no different, as State Commander Bill Roy stepped up and gave accolades to our state and Legion. Commander Roy’s short but meaningful speech was setting the tone for things to come.

National Executive Committee John “Jack” Neylon was up next by ways of introducing our keynote speaker. Jack is a great Legionnaire and we are always so proud of him and what he has done for our Legion. His introduction of our National Commander was quite impressive.

The American Legion 2009-2010 National Commander Clarence Hill. Having our National Commander as our keynote speaker was quite an honor. Having our National Commander speak for the very first time as our National Commander was historic. But that is exactly what happened. Just a couple of weeks into his term, Commander Hill gave his first ever speaking engagement, as our Commander at• Post 35’s GWOT observance. How fitting to have Commander Hill as our keynote speaker on the Day That Changed America, September 11th. National Commander Clarence Hill gave an OUTSTANDING speech. Many in attendance said it was the best speech they had ever heard at this somber ceremony. To the many Legionnaires present, to the families of the fallen, to the many civilians present. They all agreed. Commander Hill’s words will echo throughout the year.

We were all proud of our Commander.

The Commander’s speech was followed by the • placing of the wreath by Major Michael Petruzziello USMC. Then, the names of the fallen were read by POST 35 member Major Fred Rice as Post 35 Past Commander Joe Kutt tolled the bell with the reading of each name. As the final name was read, it was echoed with a precision performance by the Marine Corps League’s Seacoast Detachment’s Firing Squad fired their precise volley. TAPS was played by Post 35 member’s outstanding bugler Mark Weatherby who played at West Point.

This year’s dedication was pretty significant, with the unveiling of eight new names on The Global War On Terrorism Memorial Monument. New Hampshire service members lost from September 11, 2008 through September 11, 2009:

A special thank you and acknowledgement to the following:

All the Guest Speakers. But a special thank you and sharp hand salute to our National Commander Clarence Hill. Thanks to all the Color. Guards from: the US ARMY NHNG, Hampton Fire Dept., WHS USMC Jr ROTC Color Guard and Scout TROOP 177. Also the Seacoast Marine Corps League’s RIFLE SQUAD. The entire membership of POST 35 and all the Legionnaires from our Great State of New Hampshire.

Anyone interested in making a donation to our GWOT Memorial Monument (*Sadly, we are running out of space. We have enough room for 8 more names. We will need to include additional panels.) Can do so by sending checks to:
POST 35 GWOT Monument Fund
69 High Street Hampton, NH 03842

Thank you all again. God Bless You and God Bless America.

Ralph G. Fatello Commander, POST 35