But the wars kept coming: Korea. Vietnam. The Gulf. Iraq. Afghanistan.
Over all those years, Westporters have served their country.
Yesterday, in a simple but meaningful service, our town paid tribute to those men and women.
VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 helped sponsor the ceremonies. Speakers included master of ceremonies Judge Edward Karazin (a member of the Connecticut Veterans Hall of Fame), 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, and Staples High School senior Alessandro Alderucci.
Some veterans wore their uniforms. Others dressed more informally. Those who could, stood up straight.
All sat or stood proudly.
Look at their eyes, in the remarkable photos from Ted Horowitz — himself a former member of the Army Reserves — below. They tell you all you need to know about the importance of Veterans Day.
On Veterans Day November 11th, the veterans and community of Westport were deeply honored by a special visit from Susan Derkowski, the great niece of Private Joseph J. Clinton, a fallen hero of World War I and namesake of VFW Post 399. Susan Derkowski made the seven-hour journey by car from Aldie, Virginia, to the Joseph J. Clinton VFW Post 399 to pay tribute to her great uncle’s legacy on Veterans Day, a once of a life time trip.
Upon her arrival, she was greeted by Phil Delgado, VFW Post 399 Quartermaster, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Retired), and Patty Kondub, VFW Post 399 Auxiliary Senior Vice-President. Phil Delgado guided Susan Derkowski on a tour of the Post,, photo gallery, sharing memories and recounting stories of service members commemorated within its walls.
Afterward, the group visited Christ & Holy Trinity Cemetery in Westport, where Private Clinton rests. Killed in action in France just four days before the end of World War I—often called “the war to end all wars”—Joseph J. Clinton’s legacy remains a reminder of the sacrifices made by so many for freedom and peace.
Reflecting on the visit, Phil Delgado shared, “It was a powerful and emotional moment to witness a family member’s dedication to honoring a hero’s memory. Susan’s visit on this Veterans Day not only honored Private Joseph J. Clinton’s sacrifice in the service of his country, but served as a profound reminder of the enduring connection between family, community, and the service of our veterans.
