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Troy City holds Veterans Day ceremony at Veterans Plaza
Summary
Mayor Ethan Baker emceed the Veterans Day ceremony in Troy Cityat Veterans Plaza, where FOX2 Detroit chief meteorologist Rich Luederman gave the keynote, Lt. Todd Wodzinski of the VFW urged year-round support for veterans, and the city recognized 49 employees who are veterans.
Mayor Ethan Baker emceed a Veterans Day ceremony at Veterans Plaza in Troy City, opening the program with a recognition of the armistice that ended World War I and inviting the audience to honor veterans from every branch of the military. "Welcome to this year's City of Troy Veterans Day Ceremony," Baker said as he opened the event.
FOX2 Detroit chief meteorologist Rich Luederman delivered the keynote address, mixing a brief weather anecdote with reflections on military service. "Now first, we're gonna talk about the weather, then we're gonna talk about veterans," Luederman said, then described his service during Operation Desert Storm and the sacrifices of service members and their families. He closed by saying, "Today and every day, I'm proud to be here." Mayor Baker thanked Luederman for his service and for speaking.
Lieutenant Todd R. Wodzinski, U.S. Navy (retired) and commander of VFW Post 4037, spoke about why veterans should be thanked and supported. Wodzinski recounted veterans' roles across U.S. conflicts and in civilian life and urged concrete support for programs such as VA health care and educational benefits. "America owes you a debt that can never be repaid," Wodzinski said.
The ceremony included the posting of colors, the Pledge of Allegiance led by Council member Mark Gunn and members of Scout Troop 1707, musical service songs performed by the Heritage Concert Band of Troy, the laying of a wreath to honor all who served, and a benediction from Troy police chaplain Dr. Bob Cornwall, who prayed for compassion and peace and closed with "Amen."
Mayor Baker also noted that Troy City has been designated a Purple Heart City and that a plaque commemorating that designation is on display at City Hall. He announced that 49 Troy City employees from eight departments are veterans and thanked them for their service. Baker additionally noted that Troy City Hall was lit green recently as part of Operation Greenlight, a national campaign to spotlight veterans' services and resources.
Dignitaries in attendance included Mayor Pro Tem Harak Chanda; Troy City Council members Rebecca Chamberlain, Theresa Brooks, Mark Gunn, David Hamilton and Ellen Hoderick; council member-elect Annalisa Bloom; former council member Dave Lambert; state legislators Mike Weber and Stephanie Chang; State Representative Sharon McDonnell; Oakland County Treasurer Robert Wittenberg; county commissioners Anne Erickson Gault and Penny Luebs; Troy School District Superintendent Rich Machesky and communications director Kendra Montante; City Manager Frank Nastasi; and City Attorney Lori Bloom.
The ceremony concluded with thanks to participants including the Heritage Band, VFW leadership, Scout Troop representatives and the Troy police honor guard. The program closed with Baker—xtending holiday wishes and gratitude to all veterans in the community.
