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OLD LYME — Lyme-Old Lyme Post 1467 recently celebrated with two annual events that included recognition of local fundraising efforts for veterans and awards for members’ community service.
At the Dinner Dance, held on October 23 at the Christ the King Church, Post Commander David Griswold served as master of ceremonies. After introducing the candidates in the local election, Griswold thanked the town for its generosity and said the post had provided more than $20,000 during the pandemic in help for local veterans. Over the past eight years, the post has distributed more than $75,000 to help veterans in need
More than 175 people attended the dance, including distinguished guests Sen. Richard Blumenthal and State Sen. Paul Formica, R-East Lyme, State VFW Commander Dominik Cortese, State Senior Vice Commander Mario Richards and Canterbury Post Commander Bill D’Appollonio. Also in attendance were Cathy Cook, executive director of Work Vessels for Vets, Inc., and Sue Ellison represented the Ladies Shoreline Golf Association.
The evening included a four-course meal provided by William Lacy, food service director of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and his team.
Music was provided by the String of Pearls band, with lead singer Val Rogers.
An award of appreciation was given to David Kelsey of Old Lyme. The post also recognized Jim Graybill of All Pro for their continued support of veterans.
The Christmas celebration was held on Dec. 3 at the Old Lyme Country Club. Timothy Griswold, First Selectman of Old Lyme, coordinated the gathering of all VFW members and their families. Joseph Lacasse, trustee of the post, served as master of ceremonies and VFW Chaplain Larry Ghirardi gave the invocation.
That evening, Post Commander David Griswold presented the Commander’s Award to Senior Vice Commander Richard Mason for his work with the school and for coordinating multiple events over the course of the year.
Past Post Commander Ed Shyloski helped present the Jack Sikora Award for helping veterans, in coordination with St. Johns Church of Essex, to Jack Fiedler, past Service Officer for the post.
The Lifetime VFW Award was presented to Navy Captain Larry Olson for service to the post.
Note: David Kelsey is the principal funder of CT Examiner.