Nov. 11 — Western Region Vets Committee Chair Amy Owczarczak confers with former Chair Bob Pyjas before the ceremony at the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park. Photos by Ove Overmyer, CSEA ©2017.
Buffalo—On Saturday, November 11 more than 100 CSEA members and invited guests attended the 17th Annual CSEA Western Region Veterans Day Ceremony held at the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park.
The event was sponsored by the Western Region Veterans Committee and is chaired by Amy Owczarczak from Erie County Local 815. Western Region Veterans Committee member and Region VP Timothy Finnigan served as Master of Ceremonies at the gathering.
CSEA Western Region President Flo Tripi and attendees paid tribute to the many men and women who have selflessly served and continue to serve our country in the name of freedom.
“This time honored tradition has become one of the signature events for our region,” said Owczarczak. She added, “I am extremely proud to be part of this committee, give back to my community and serve my country.”
Flo Tripi
President Tripi reminded those in the audience there are many veterans among the CSEA membership who have served in various capacities in the armed services while some who are still presently serving as reservists. Tripi also praised the Western Region Vets Committee for their outstanding contributions to improving the quality of life for all veterans who call Western New York home.
The scheduled program was ambitious– complete with singing of the American and Canadian national anthems, a 21-gun salute from the VFW 1419 out of Hamburg, NY, laying of the wreath, a carnation dedication in memory of veterans who gave the ultimate sacrifice, the American Flag Folding Ceremony and speeches from invited guests and local dignitaries.
A picnic style luncheon immediately followed the ceremony.
Western Region Veterans Committee would like to thank Bagpiper Joe Baschnagel, the Rev. Joseph Porpigla, Singer TSgt Shamiqua Mason, Audrey Sigler, Hamburg VFW Post 1419, 914 ARW Honor Guard, Niagara Falls AFB, Boy Scout Troop #138, Paula’s Donuts, DiBella’s Subs and the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park for their assistance at this event.
Laying of the Wreath– Former Vets Committee Chair Bob Pyjas (at left), carries a remembrance wreath to its final destination at the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park on November 11, 2017. With him are other members of the 2017 Western Region Veterans Committee.
-Ove Overmyer
