Lawmakers Join Together to Honor Connecticut’s Veterans

HARTFORD – State Representatives Doug Dubitsky (R-47), Robin Green (R-55), Mike France (R-42), and Holly Cheeseman (R-37) joined State Senators Heather Somers (R-18) and Cathy Osten (D-19) at the Submarine Force Museum for a ceremony to honor our state’s veterans.

The historical ship Nautilus (SSN 571), the first and now-retired nuclear powered submarine served as the backdrop to the 8th annual “To Honor and Remember” event. The ceremony pays tribute to soldiers from all branches of the military for their dedication and service, along with a special Veterans Remembrance Event for those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

“We stand alongside all veterans of our armed forces, as they have served this country with tremendous honor and distinction,” Rep. Dubitsky said. “These heroes, many of whom never came home from battle, selflessly answered the call when our country needed them. I am tremendously honored to have been a part of today’s ceremony. It is imperative that we continue to remember and reflect on the sacrifices of these brave men and women so that we may continue to enjoy the liberties that make America the land of the free.”

“Today serves as a reminder to the rest of us of the many men and women who have voluntarily put their lives on the line to keep this country safe and for those who have sacrificed it all for the freedoms we all enjoy,” Rep. Green said. “It was truly an honor to have been invited to recognize them for their bravery, courage, and dedication to this great country and state.”

“I was particularly touched to hear the essays read aloud by young Sea Cadets at the ceremony that explored their feelings of appreciation towards our nation’s veterans,” said Rep. Cheeseman. “It is so important to keep celebrating the service of our brave countrymen and women, so that we may keep alive our gratitude and patriotism for future generations to continue observing and learning from their example.”

“Despite the pouring rain, heavy at times, that welcomed us to the Submarine Force Museum on Friday, the turn-out of veterans, active duty service members, families, and other officials just goes to show how much appreciation there is in our state for those who serve our country each and every day,” said Rep. France, a U.S. Navy Veteran. “I was honored to have the opportunity to attend the recognition ceremony for my fellow veterans, but more especially to recognize those that made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.”

“I was proud to join my fellow legislators to honor our state’s veterans at the Submarine Force Museum,” said Sen. Somers (R-Groton). “It is important to always stay vigilant and remember those who have given their lives to keep us safe. These brave men and women have served this country with distinction and merit, and far too often their sacrifices go unnoticed. This was a great opportunity for all to celebrate the service of our brave veterans – I offer them the most sincere gratitude for their continual commitment to our great nation.”

The event also featured a “shipmates remembrance ceremony” to honor all those who have served in the various branches of the military. Each branch was recognized individually while their theme songs were played.

The annual event is hosted by VITAS Healthcare, who offers hospice care to veterans with a wide range of terminal conditions.

(L-R): Rep. Doug Dubitsky (R-47), Sen. Heather Somers (R-18), Rep. Robin Green (R-55), Rep. Holly Cheeseman (R-37), and Rep. Mike France (R-42).

State Representatives Dubitsky, Green, Cheeseman and France joined Sen. Somers at a Ceremony held last week at the Submarine Force Museum in Groton to honor Connecticut’s veterans from all branches of the military.