SALISBURY – Veterans from area communities gathered at Blue Ocean Event Center on Monday for a morning full of recognition and remembrance in their honor.
The popular annual “Thank Tou” breakfast hosted by the Salisbury Council on Aging brought together veterans from Salisbury, Amesbury, Newburyport, Merrimac and beyond.
Andrew Suggs, assistant director of the Salisbury COA, said he was happy to see veterans enjoying a meal together.
“We’re very grateful for everyone that’s here and all our veterans. We’re just happy to be able to have everyone together today,” he said.
Kevin Hunt, Amesbury’s director of Veterans Services said, there is an feeling of camaraderie at events that bring veterans into a group.
“When you’re in a room with veterans, you have a feeling that everybody’s got your back. And, that’s a unique feeling,” he said.
A number of organizations that provide aid to veterans locally were present at the event, including the Sgt. Jordan M. Shay Memorial Foundation.
Holly Shay, president of the foundation and mother of the late Jordan Shay, said the breakfast allows the foundation to engage with local veterans.
“It feels wonderful to be here today. It’s a true day brightener. We do love supporting our veterans. We see many familiar faces each time we do one of these events, and it’s a joy. It’s a joy to be here for them to be able to thank them and to tell them a little bit about our foundation and how we can help veterans,” she said.
State Sen. Bruce Tarr was also in attendance and thanked the gathered veterans for their service.
“You remind us of the importance of military service. You remind us of the importance of patriotism. And, you remind us just how blessed we are to be able to sit at a table on a day like this, look across it, face you eye to eye and say ‘thank you,’” he said.
Featured speaker and retired Navy Seal Scott Chierepko was one of the final people to address the room and left those in attendance with a message about community.
“Every Veterans Day I think about what unites all of us who have worn the uniform. No matter what branch, what rank or what era, it’s not just duty or discipline, it’s purpose. It’s knowing we’re a part of something bigger than ourselves, a team,” he said. “And, when I look around this room, I see that same purpose reflected back in the families who supported us, the teachers, the coaches who guided us, the neighbors who welcomed us home. That’s what makes communities like Newburyport and this area special, and that’s what makes America strong.”