Veterans Day: Celebrations Around Milford

By: Grace Brogan and Dabi Lee, Staff Writers                                             November 1, 2022

    Milford is known for its festivities and celebrations for several holidays, the latest of these holidays being Veterans Day. For events in a small city, Milford goes all out with parades, performances, and gatherings that give back to veterans. Not only is there a variety of opportunities for celebration in the general area, but Foran contributes as well.

    With Veterans Day just around the corner on November 11, excitement has grown for the first of many fall holidays that brings the community together.

    This year will mark the 68th anniversary of Veterans Day, first established in 1954 by President Eisenhower. Over the years, many traditions have developed in commemoration of the date.

    Veteran and paraprofessional, Mr. Paul Grillo, explains the importance of the holiday and what it means to him.

    “Our servicemen and women sacrifice much, so that we as a nation can have freedoms that are unmatched by any other country in the world. That is something pretty special. We owe them a day of gratitude,” Grillo explains.

    Veterans Day is a time for celebration in a multitude of ways. Grillo celebrates by discussing his experiences as a member of the armed forces with his students.

    As Veterans Day approaches, several festivities and fundraisers are prepared within the Foran community. One fundraiser held at school is the Home for the Brave.

    Teacher and fundraising organizer Ms. Rachel Rowley explains that Home for the Brave contributes goods to service members.

    Those who have watched the parade in the past may remember participating groups such as the local Girl and Boy Scout Troops, the Irish Heritage Society, and the Foran and Law marching bands.

    Ms. Jessica Turner has directed the Foran Marching Band in the Veterans Day parade since 2004, and has become familiar with several Foran veteran traditions.

    According to Turner, a positive and prideful response from the community always follows the band performance.

    Turner reveals, “The feeling of being part of the Milford community at an event like this is truly special but even more than that, to be able to recognize our Veterans is a true honor.”