Article by Peter Bush
Descendants of WWI and Vietnam Veterans were honored on Sunday November 10, 2019 at the Sloatsburg Senior Center.
47 attendees were privileged to hear the memories of those who served and the recollections of their family members. Particularly poignant were the brief comments of Lorraine Brush who’s beloved nephew Richard Brush died on his second deployment in Vietnam. A fellow childhood friend and veteran also honored Richard by recalling what a popular student and person of character he was.
A special cake presented at the Sloatsburg Historical Society program for descendants of WWI veterans and Vietnam veterans.
A concise presentation by Bishop George Langberg honored the impressive and distinguished long time military service of Pierpont Morgan and his son David Hamilton 97 years young and going strong!
Kay Ruma sent recollections to Ed Marse about her grandfather Dr. Ralph Lewis White and her great Uncle Dr. R. Halsey McCready. Both were called into service May 1917 when President Wilson ordered sent 1000 doctors to Europe to aid the war effort. Dr. White sustained a serious war injury a year later and was sent home.
Jeremy Honey served in Vietnam and went on to an impressive technical and special operations career. He provided a vivid picture of the challenging terrain and day to day Vietnam combat issues. Mr. Honey showed a note he received from President Ronald Reagan which he “treasures to this day”.
Bishop George Langberg honored the impressive and distinguished military service of Pierpont Morgan and his son David Hamilton, now age 97 years and going strong. The event saw a full house on Sunday, November 10, at the Sloatsburg Senior Center.
Mayor Carl Wright rounded out the program with a historical context of US, French and Vietnamese relations from the 1950’s to the withdrawal of American troops in the early 1970’s.
Also attending was Rockland County Legislator Doug Jobson.
Significant thanks to WWII Veteran and two time purple heart recipient Harrison Bush for his thoughtful organization of a meaningful event with the support of the Sloatsburg Historical Society.
Today (November 11, Veterans Day) at the eleventh minute of the eleventh hour and the eleventh day of the eleventh month …. pause and remember those who served.
Freedom is not free…
Sincere thanks to those who made time to support this event including Jane Kral and Monica Murray, President of the Sloatsburg Historical Society.
Special thanks to Ralph Conte; President of the Sloatsburg Seniors, who generously and seamlessly helped us set up and participate in the event with a great sense of humor and practical help!
Upcoming Veterans Programs:
November 23 — On behalf of the Village of Sloatsburg, every veteran will be able to receive a turkey and a food basket for Thanksgiving. The distribution will take place on Saturday, November 23, between the hours of 9 AM and 11 AM at the Sloatsburg Municipal Building.
December 3 — The Village’s Annual Veterans Program is Tuesday, December 3 at 7:30 PM. It is the 75th anniversary of D-Day. We will recognize Veteran Gerry Vautrin who has served in the military for 41 years. We cannot, must not and will not forget those men and women who have defended our freedom throughout our history.
Call the Village of Sloatsburg office for additional information.
