On Veterans Day, and on every other day, let us always pause to remember. Let us strive to honor and thank these brave men and women and their families for their sacrifices. And let us fulfill our own sacred obligation to care for them when they have returned home to us. –Senator Patrick Leahy, D-Vt.

This Friday, November 10, the Northfield and Norwich University communities are taking time out to remember and reflect upon the courage, commitment, and sacrifice of the men and women who serve in our armed forces.

Beginning at 3:15 p.m., the Norwich University Corps of Cadets will conduct a parade in honor of veterans, past and present. As in the former years, the ceremony includes a review of the Regiment, the Roll of Wars (with artillery fire), a wreath laying, three rifle volleys, and Echo Taps. In addition, Brigadier General Michel Natali, Norwich University Class of 1987 will serve as the reviewing officer and guest speaker. BG Natali is commanding general of the 53rd Troop Command, New York Army National Guard.

In addition, another very important ceremony taking place just prior: the dedication of a Gold Star Families Memorial Monument in Center Park, the grassy area between Route 12 and Cabot Science, beginning at 2:00 p.m.

These polished, black granite monuments are the brainchild of Hershel Woodrow "Woody" Williams, a retired United States Marine who received the Medal of Honor for his actions in the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II. Now 94, Woody established the Hershel Woody Williams Congressional Medal of Honor Education Foundation, Inc., a not-for-profit organization that encourages, with the assistance of the American public and community leaders, the installation of permanent Gold Star Families Memorial Monuments in communities throughout the country. The Foundation, whose stated purpose is to “honor Gold Star Families, relatives, and Gold Star Children who have sacrificed a loved one in the service of their country,” also provides scholarships to eligible Gold Star Children.

To date, 22 Gold Star Family Memorial Monuments have been installed in 22 states around the country. Thanks to the leadership of Vermont Governor Phil Scott and a few local citizens, the 23rd such memorial is being given a permanent home right next to campus. According to Northfield resident Richard J. Wobby, the reason Northfield was chosen for the site was in part because of Norwich University and the values it shares with the foundation—in particular, the belief in the citizen-soldier idea. One of the core values listed on the foundation’s website states: “We believe that America’s destiny lies in its youth and are committed to helping them become worthy citizens of our country in the belief that ordinary Americans have the potential to challenge fate and change the course of history.” Norwich University founder, Captain Alden Partridge, gave rise to the citizen soldier idea, and the institution is recognized as the birthplace of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps.

Please come at 2:00 p.m. to Center Park on Route 12 in Northfield, right next to the Norwich University campus, to witness this solemn tribute to Vermont’s Gold Star Families. Immediately following the dedication, all those present will be invited to walk to the Norwich University Upper Parade Ground for a special Veterans Day Observance and reception, beginning at 3:15 p.m.

Please leave your dogs at home, observe the no parking signs, and bring earplugs if your ears are sensitive to cannon blasts.