By Meghan Peterson
(October 30, 2022)—On October 16, which was a sunny autumn Sunday, people of all ages convened at the Higganum Green and participated in an event honoring active military, military veterans, law enforcement and other first responder personnel (firefighter, dispatch, EMS) in Haddam as well as across Connecticut.
Brendan Saunders opened the event by welcoming those gathered. Before segueing to the line-up of speakers, Saunders gave a prayer expressing gratitude for our freedoms – and those who have fought for them and who continue to do so.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and The National Anthem was sung. People waved American flags (including this author accompanied by her youngest toddler, who managed to wave the American flag fairly well) and donned patriotic apparel to mark the occasion.
To highlight the recent ambush murders of two Bristol, Connecticut police officers and the serious injury of a third – event organizers led a moment of silence.
Those in attendance heard from various speakers, including Bob Stefanowski, Connecticut Republican candidate for Governor (running against incumbent Democrat Gov. Ned Lamont); Leora Levy, Republican candidate for U.S. Senate (running against incumbent Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal); Brandon Goff, Republican candidate for State Senate-33rd District (running against incumbent Democratic State Sen. Norm Needleman); Chris Turkington, Republican candidate for State House-36th District (running against incumbent Democratic State Rep. Christine Palm); Irene Haines, First Selectwoman of East Haddam and State Rep. for the 34th District.
Common themes throughout the remarks included the importance of respecting law and order; the necessity for preserving foundations for freedom and liberty; and the paramount value of standing for parental rights in guiding their children’s education.
Photos courtesy of Dan Luisi
