CHICOPEE – American Legion Post 279, city officials, Mayor John Vieau, Rep. Richard Neal and veterans across the district gathered on Nov. 11 at Veterans Memorial Plaza to celebrate Veterans Day. Along with the city’s traditioned laying of wreaths to acknowledge soldiers from various wars, the ceremony also featured 22 rings of the bell to honor the centennial of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. Neal thanked veterans for their commitments and sacrifices while acknowledging Chicopee’s efforts to honor its veterans. “In Chicopee, you always get it right,” said Neal.

In his speech, Vieau reflected on the honor, commitment and integrity of the 5,000 veterans who live in Chicopee. “We are a veteran proud city,” said Vieau.