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Honoring America’s heroes

HUDSON — The Hudson Veterans’ Day Parade made its way down Warren Street Tuesday morning, coming to a stop at the Hudson City Courthouse for the annual Veterans’ Day Ceremony.

The ceremony began with an invocation given by Rev. John Perry of the Christ Episcopal church and Hudson Mayor Richard Scalera made the welcoming remarks, reflecting on the recent election.

“We were required to expend the energy to pay attention, and choose who we felt were the best candidates for the job. This is the sole responsibility that we have in order to protect our country and our freedom,” said Scalera. “Today we are here to acknowledge those who have sacrificed far more.”

Vince Grimaldi, master of ceremonies, introduced guest speaker Maj. Theresa Meltz of Hillsdale. Meltz, who served in Tikrit, Iraq, is an employee of Twin Counties Medical Associates in Hudson. She spoke about the commonalties shared by all who serve in the Armed Forces, including the discomfort of training and the unforgettable friendships created.

The Hudson High School band played the Star Spangled Banner and Jessica Sweet sang God Bless America in honor of John “Jake” Martin who passed away earlier this year.

William J. Quigley, who was a member of the Army’s famed 10th Mountain Division during WW11, was awarded eight medals for his service. The medals came as surprise to Quigley, who had had never been formally honored before. According to his son, William J. Quigley Jr., paperwork errors and lost records were to blame for his father never having received medals before now.

“His paperwork was always wrong,” said his son. “Things were moving so quickly then.”

After a year-and-a -half of investigative work, Quigley Jr. was able to track down the records, correct the necessary errors, and make arrangements for the medals to be presented to his father. Quigley Sr., who was injured by shrapnel and spent 18 months recuperating at Fort Dix, was awarded the Purple Heart medal, the WWII Victory medal, and five others.

“He’s always been a hero to us, but now it’s official,” said the younger Quigley.

The names of Columbia County citizens who lost their lives defending their country were read aloud by local veterans. As the ceremony came to an end, a salute was made by a veterans’ firing squad, followed by a bugle call and Taps.

Dorothy Avery laid a wreath on the WW11 memorial on behalf of the Daughters of the Revolution and the benediction was given by Rev. Ed Cross of Endless Love Temple.

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