Community members and their families gathered outside of the Kauneonga Lake Fire Department in the town of Bethel Friday morning hugging, shaking hands, chatting, and thanking the men in their uniforms for their service. 

Due to the approaching rain, at exactly 11 a.m., everyone moved inside to the fire hall, setting out chairs and moving the podium to the center of the room to begin the annual Veterans Day Service. As everyone settled, Howard Goldsmith, Chairman of the Sullivan County Veterans Coalition opened the ceremony and invited the first speakers up.

“Veterans Day celebrates all service members, living or passed on and their brave sacrifices. We use this time to give special thanks to the soldiers and Veterans who have served us during both war and peace times,” said Bethel Town Supervisor Daniel Sturm. “It has been said that there is no tribute, no commemoration, no praise that can really match the magnitude of your service and your sacrifices...in Bethel we are a grateful town. Our hearts are filled with respect and gratitude for you, and we work to make your lives better as you have done for ours.”

The service ended with cake, coffee and tea for all at the Senior Center.