Post 782 Newsletter
July 2020
Independence Day agreement reached on July 2, 1776
Did you know? John Adams believed that July 2nd was the correct date on which to celebrate the birth of American independence, and would reportedly turn down invitations to appear at July 4th events in protest.
However, on July 4th, the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence. Though the vote for actual independence took place on July 2nd, the 4th became the day that was celebrated as the birth of American independence.
Just in case you didn't know...
Memorial Day 2020 Homage at Battery Park planned by The Honorable Miro Weinberger
In VFW Post 782's nearly 100 years existence, 2020 will count as a unique time when the Post did not plan a Memorial Day Commemoration. The ongoing uncertainty related to COVID-19 led to the decision to not hold the annual event at Battery Park. However, Burlington Mayor, Miro Weinberger felt it was too important a day to go by without special notice.
Therefore, on behalf of the combat veterans and Auxiliary members of the Howard Plant VFW Post 782, thank you, Mayor Weinberger for your sincere wish to recognize Memorial Day this year. It is not lost on the few Veterans who joined you at Battery Park, that in the middle of the COVID-19 health crisis, your concerns for all Burlingtonians is your top priority. It means so very much to us to know that you also place in high regard, the many lives lost throughout history in the name of freedom.
Mayor Weinberger's remarks below remind us to never forget the sacrifices given through military service and the various ways in which all of us can contribute to a greater good in our community.
Mayor Weinberger's remarks at this year's Memorial Day Commemoration at Battery Park:
“This year, we recognized both the annual commemoration of Memorial Day and the fact that nearly 100,000 Americans had died as a result of the coronavirus,” said Mayor Miro Weinberger. “Memorial Day is about honoring those who served and gave their lives for this country, and who have made possible the freedoms, rights, and stability that we all benefit from. This year, it is more important than ever that we remember the spirit of Memorial Day. We can remember it as we put on our masks, keep our distance from friends, take our temperatures as we leave our houses, or sit in quarantine. We can remember it as we each are called upon to shoulder the small burdens and inconveniences that we must in order to protect each other.
During the great tests of history, Americans have always risen to the moment, acted together, and sacrificed for each other. We see this happening again now. We see companies repurposing factories, sewers and gardeners finding new ways to contribute to their fellow residents, and businesses reinventing themselves in the face of challenge and adversity. This year, as we recognize Memorial Day, let us also commit ourselves to honoring the sacrifice of those who came before us and re-committing to protecting our neighbors, friends, and families.”
And... Consider the following opportunity in support of the Burlington Community!
From your home: Plant ~ Harvest ~ Donate surplus (July - September)
Donation collections sites are open 9:30am – 12noon
Tuesdays at the Intervale Center (180 Intervale Road)
Thursdays at Champlain School (800 Pine St)
Saturdays July 11, July 25, August 8, August 22 at Roosevelt Park (7 Willow St)
Veteran & Community Programs are in development so check back for updates periodically!
