About 200 people packed into the Aspen firehouse Wednesday (11/11) for an annual ceremony honoring veterans. Aspen Public Radio's Marci Krivonen reports.
Trumpeter Richard Sundeen set a somber tone to start the hour-long ceremony. It was standing room only in the firehouse’s large garage where a bright red engine was the backdrop. Typically the ceremony is held at the Veterans Memorial Site next to the courthouse, but snow and cold brought everyone inside.
This year’s theme was connecting community to veterans. Colonial Dick Merritt of Basalt led the event.
"Those who have served in active duty also serve in law enforcement, fire/rescue and EMS. So we are caring for the community at this point," he said.
Aspen Fire Chief Rick Ballentine drew parallels between the daily tasks of firefighters and those of military personnel. He listed shared characteristics.
"The ability to remain calm under stress, the ability to act decisively, but the most important attribute is their willingness to risk injury to help others."
The county sheriff and a police sergeant also spoke.
And, for the third year in a row, fifth graders from Aspen Middle School sang patriotic songs.
A wreath was laid at the podium, an eternal flame lit and several stories shared about local veterans. This was the event’s 28th year.