American Condominium Honors Veterans
Major Parsels Commemorates Veterans in an Emotional Ceremony
By Susan Slater
A heartfelt gatheringin American Condominium’s community honored its veterans in a moving ceremony led by Army Major Wendy Parsels, who served 23 years from 1984 to 2007 in both Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom. Major Parsels retired before being deployment to Afghanistan, recognizing that a third combat tour might not be a charm. Her sacrifices were deeply appreciated, setting the tone with gratitude and respect for American and Canadian veterans and their families.
Mike Pesci welcomed all attendees. They joined in singing both the American and Canadian National Anthems and pledged allegiance to our flag.
The ceremony continued with poems, one called ‘Take a Moment to Thank a Veteran’ read by Peter Grant. Service Anthems were playedas each branch was acknowledged and the Army and Marine’s 250th birthdays noted.Another poem, ‘They Did Their Share’ was read by Pam Davis-Guerra. “Let every veteran be honored. Without them, freedom would have died.”
An emotional video titled ‘Freedom is not Free,’featured stirring images of veterans in battle making an impact on all. The visuals evoked vivid memories recalling moments that are impossible to forget but often remain unspoken.
Sandie LaBonte read a brief history of Veterans Day, explaining its origins as Armistice Day in 1919 to commemorate the end of World War I. She described the holiday’s evolution through various proclamations, resolutions, and acts.
Tom Davis spoke about Canada’s Remembrance Day, also observed on November 11th. He highlighted how Canadians pay tribute to all who have served in their country’s defense, too.
Another video stirred emotions,‘A Pittance of Time,’ written in 1999 by Canadian-born folk singer, Terry Kelly was inspired by an incident in which a man refused to observe a two-minute silence for veterans. “God forgive me for wanting to strike him. Give me strength so as not to be like him.”
Next Major Parcels took the podium, her voice steady yet emotional. She spoke candidly about her years of military service, sharing stories of courage, fear, and the enduring bonds forged with fellow service members. As she recounted these personal experiences, many attendees were visibly moved, some wiping away tears in silent solidarity. Major Parcels could not hold back her tears as she read. From the back of the room her husband Charlie came to stand by her side in support with a hand on her shoulder reading for her until she could read on.
‘Before you Go’ a video produced by Major Parcels, paid tribute to the residents’ veteran family members with photos of grandfathers, fathers and mothers, sons and daughters and grandchildrenset to stirring music by Rhonda Vincent, ‘Till They Come Home,” a song spanning the generations of wars.
A moment of silence honoredall veterans. The haunting notes of TAPS filled the air. Pesci delivered heartfelt closing emphasizing the vital importance of teaching history to future generations and ensuring that the stories of sacrifice are never forgotten.
“To me, itis one of the most significant and memorable days of the year. It causes me to reflecton my own time in service, all the friends I made and my family’s collection of Veterans. Thanks again to all Veterans who have served to protect our country and keep America, the land of the free because of the brave.” ---Major Wendy Parcels.
