ELDRED, NY — Ninety-nine years after the armistice was signed to end World War I, Highland residents gathered to honor their own on November 11 at 11 a.m. The commemoration was hosted by the Tusten-Highland-Lumberland VFW Post 6427 and the Sylvan Liebla American Legion Post 1363. Commander  Peter D. Carmeci Sr. served as the Master of Ceremonies.

The coldest temperatures of the season did not deter the standing-room-only crowd as they saluted the flag and acknowledged the service of veterans present and those who have passed from this life. It was noted that a plaque commemorating local heroes from World War I had recently been relocated from the Sunshine Hall Free Library to its new home in Heroes Park outside the Highland Town Hall in Eldred, which was also the location of the ceremony. 

Members of VFW presented the colors and provided a three-volley salute. Taps was played by a Marine Corps bugler.

Rev. Nancy Lee Vonderhorst from the Pond Eddy United Methodist Church led the invocation. Rev. Susan Storms of Eldred Congregational Church pronounced the benediction on the proceedings. After the service, the veterans were congratulated and thanked with handshakes and hugs by the contingent of Eldred students present. A time of fellowship followed in the town hall during which cake and coffee were served. The cake was compliments of Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther, who greeted the crowd and expressed her thanks to those who had served.