By Taylor Sterling
Riding in an open top ole Jeep last week to film the escort of the arrival of the wreaths coming to the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Goshen was overwhelming. We were led by the Nam Knights and numerous police cars from every town plus firetrucks from various towns in the county. The tractor trailer truck bringing in the wreaths was surrounded by students who had raised $3,700 for the Wreaths Across America. These youngsters were from Park Avenue Elementary and were accompanied by their incredible teachers, Theresa Canfield & Amy Buliung. The streets in Goshen were lined with young and old waving American flags and cheering on the escorts as well as the students from Burke Catholic with their President, John Douthit and their Principal, Janice Clark. The Orange County Executive, Steve Neuhaus, the Director of Veteran Affairs, Christian Farrell were also all part of this auspicious escort. Dave Andryshak, the Superintendent of the cemetery, who works tirelessly each day at the cemetery, oversees this amazing tradition is nothing short of amazing! Also, there each year is the “Tree of Heroes.” Hanging from the tree are photographs of veterans in their uniforms from all the wars with their loved ones, along with notes written to them from children throughout the county. Please remember those who served to keep us free and safe by keeping them in your prayers. Freedom is not free!
