By Jennifer Ersalesi
Date Change: Sunday, May 21st at 2:30 pm
The month of May is often when our nation takes time to remember our veterans from all branches of the military. The Rutherford Little League organization has found a way to pay tribute to all veterans. On Saturday, May 20th, Rutherford Little League invites everyone to attend, "Rutherford Little League Honors Our Veterans" at the Rutherford Little League Field at 2:30 pm. This is Rutherford spoke with Kelly Lancaster, one of the organizers of this event, about this special tribute and the reasons why it is so important.
TIR: Why has Rutherford Little League decided to provide this opportunity for our community to celebrate our Veterans at the Rutherford Little League Field this upcoming Saturday, May 20th?
Kelly Lancaster: Throughout the history of Rutherford there have been many young men and women who have graduated from Rutherford High School or St. Mary High School and ventured off to serve our country. In addition, many families who have moved into town have family members who have served our country. Considering all of the history within our town, we proposed the idea and many people enthusiastically joined the effort to honor our veterans. We all want to show our appreciation and we all believe that Rutherford’s children can learn from those who have sacrificed for our freedom.
TIR: Why is it important to celebrate Veterans at the Rutherford Little League field?
KL: Like so many others, I think it is important to honor people who have sacrificed and served our country. I also think it is important for our children to spend time with role models. Growing up is filled with challenges and modern technology presents easy access to trouble. I think, in a small way, spending time in-person with people who have served our country offers a great opportunity to be a part of something positive. I also think everyone at Rutherford Little League does a lot for our community and our children, so bringing all of these people together strengthens our town.
TIR: How will veterans be honored at the field?
KL: There will be a brief ceremony honoring the veterans before the 3:00 pm game. In addition, any and all proceeds from the t-shirt sale, the kitchen sales, the 50/50, and the donation jar sale will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project. Each veteran will receive a complimentary t-shirt and lunch, donated by AnnaMaria’s Deli of East Rutherford, will be served in the club house.
TIR: Michael Santomenna and Immaculate Designs have created a celebratory t-shirt for the Veterans. How can Veterans and their families who plan to attend the event get a t-shirt to wear that day?
KL: This is not the first time I have worked with Mike and Immaculate Designs. He has enthusiastically and generously helped with multiple Rutherford efforts. A Google form has been created for anyone interested in ordering a t-shirt: Click here for the order form. The price of a t-shirt is $20.00, and they are complimentary for Veterans. For more information, email lancasterkelly10294@gmail.com.
TIR: Anything else you would like to share?
KL: Rutherford has lost members of our community during our country’s wars and during other military operations. Memorial Day is a day that honors those whom we have lost. We want to thank all who attend and we will be thinking of those whom we have lost and those who cannot attend. Thank you to all who sacrificed. I also want to thank all who are working to make this special event a success.
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