A special award for two Norwich Richmond Middle schoolchildren.

They both went out of their way to organize an event to help veterans.

Good evening Norwich,

The American Legion Post # 8 held our regular meeting on December 6, 2021, however this meeting was far from regular, in fact it was a very special evening.

We had The Department of Vermont State Commander, Catherine M. Tester and Department of Vermont Sergeant of Arms Silas Loomis visit our post and they participated in a very special presentation along with our post Commander Jim Harlow. We also officially welcomed in a new member. And now for the rest of the story.

On November 11, 2021 while the American legion Post # 8 was having our Veterans day ceremony, two Norwich residents and Richmond middle school students were organizing and conducting a Veterans day run/walk at the Richmond School field. The purpose of this event was to raise money for veterans.

Ella Rom Tesone and Jack Myers co-organized this event and made it a huge success.

They and their classmates went beyond the call of duty and raised $ 4,963.75. They decided to donate it to the Veterans Project and The Veterans Place Inc., two fine organization that help veterans.

Congratulations Ella and Jack on a job well done.

Photo credits for this story , belong to Gary De Gasta, Emily Myers, Manu Tesone and Demo Sofronas.

L to R Department of Vermont Commander Catherine M. Tester, Jack Myers, Ella Rom Tesone and Jim Harlow Post # 8 commander

Two classmates holding the American Flag at the event

No photos please!

Jack and Ella explaining the event to the Legion members and guests.

The Commander asking some questions and must of liked the response as he is smiling.

American Legion Department of Vermont State Commander Catherine M. Tester reading the certificate to Ella

And here is Ella’s certificate

And then presenting her with a memorable honor coin

And here she is presenting Jack with his award and coin

A closeup of his certificate

It is all smiles here

And a group photo with the awardees and Commanders

A round of applause from the legion members and an opportunity to take some photos

Lt Colonel retired Ethan Myers being sworn in as a Legion member

And here Emily is happy to pin Ethan with his new legion pin. (hold still Ethan)

The Department of Vermont Commander telling the members about some of the new programs that the American Legion offers.

Member Gary De Gasta addressing the group on some veterans issues.