Nashua 8/26
Program set to pay tribute and offer support to troops
As the war in Iraq continues to be debated, David Smith worries that the men and women fighting there don’t get nearly the support they deserve.
“What I feel right now is a general negativity about the war politically,” said Smith, a state representative from Nashua.
“We have men and women who are in harm’s way. No matter what you feel about the issue, you certainly should be supporting their efforts and wishing them well,” he said.
City residents can show their support Saturday in a Support Our Troops tribute that Smith is helping to organize.
The event will include music, speeches and a forum for information about veterans. It will be held at the Greeley Park band shell from 2-4 p.m.
Among those who plan to attend, Smith said, are Mayor Bernie Streeter, U.S. Rep. Charlie Bass, New Hampshire National Guard officials, and Griffin T. Dalianis, commander of Gate City Chapter 7 of the Disabled American Veterans and a civilian aide to the Secretary of the Army.
Dalianis also serves on the Mayor’s Veterans Council and is chairman of the State Veterans Advisory Committee.
Soldiers who have returned from Iraq, as well as family members of servicemen and women fighting there now, will also be part of the ceremony, Smith said.
The program will feature several musical guests, including N.H. National Guard Maj. Scott Loring, who will sing the national anthem.
Also performing will be the Dave Rasmussen Jazz Orchestra.
“This is the time to be upbeat, to be glad we’re Americans and to be truly thankful for the people who are doing their job,” Smith said.
Laconia 9/16
The Troop Rally will be held on Saturday, September 16th at 1 p.m. on the grounds of the American Legion in Laconia.
Service members in uniform, family members, friends and community members are all welcome to participate.
Motorcyclists are invited to gather at the Belknap Mall at noon to join in a motorcycle procession to the Troop Rally.
Please call Alice Dame at (603) 279-0327 if you wish to speak at the Troop Rally or if you would like any further information.
Donita S. Rardin
NH National Guard
Family Assistance Center Specialist
Phone: (603) 227-1496
Website: https://nh.ngb.army.mil/fp
E-mail: donita.rardin@us.army.mil
Source Link: http://www.nashuatelegraph.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060820/NEWS01/108200133/-1/sports
