Spirit of ‘45 celebration returns to Stoney Brook
Fri, 2016-08-19 05:00
News Staff
By LYNETTE SOWELL
Cove Leader-Press
The “Greatest Generation” will be celebrated tomorrow at Stoney Brook Assisted Living Center at 1808 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. from 2-4 p.m.
The First Cavalry Jazz Band will be special musical guests, performing patriotic tunes and songs of yesteryear. The Color Guard will also be present to render honors.
The 6th annual Spirit of ‘45 celebration is open to the public, and the assisted living facility has a number of residents who served during World War II.
Back in 2010, members of Congress on both sides of the aisle supported the efforts of Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine), who called for a national day of remembrance of Aug. 14, 1945, the day that World War II ended.
“As we approach the 65th anniversary of the end of World War II, it is fitting that we honor the men and women of the Greatest Generation who sacrificed so much for our security and freedom,” said Senator Collins. “I was pleased to have the opportunity to recognize the anniversary of the end of World War II by supporting a passage of a resolution to commemorate this significant anniversary, and am happy that Senators Lautenberg, Burr, Lieberman, Akaka, and Inouye joined me in my efforts. We owe a supreme debt of gratitude to our World War II veterans, and I will continue to work hard to ensure that all our veterans and service members are recognized for their service.”
Spirit of ‘45 events are held throughout the country in August each year.
For example, on Sunday at Times Square at 42nd and Broadway, couples gathered to reenact the “kiss seen round the world” in which a jubilant sailor kisses a nurse in celebration of the end of the war.
Last Saturday, the National Park Service held the 2nd annual “Rosie the Riveter” salute, including the oldest living “Rosie”, Elinor Otto, as their guest speaker.
In Copperas Cove, tomorrow’s celebration will be smaller but no less significant.
Stoney Brook’s marketing director Kelly Wright said the day is to honor World War II veterans.
Appetizers and cake will be served, along with Freddy’s Custard. Stoney Brook hosts several events such as Spirit of ‘45 throughout the year and invites the community to join in.