GHS Fallen Alumni Memorial - the Observance
This past Saturday, Veterans Day, the Gilford School Board (Derek Thomlinson - Chair, Margo Weeks, Kurt Webber, Sue Allen, Paul Blandford) and the students of Gilford High School (serving Gilford and Gilmanton) dedicated a memorial in the honor of all graduates of Gilford High that have given their lives in the service of our country.
Nicholas Cournoyer of Gilmanton was serving with the 10 Mountain Division [home based at Fort Drum, NY] in Iraq when he was killed in action. His memory was honored at this event.
Comrades from the 10th Mountain Division of Fort Drum, NY gather around the GHS Fallen Alumni Memorial before the ceremony. The Memorial is located in the front of the High School along the outside of the gym wall bracketed by two flag poles.
American Flag displayed proudly at the entrance to GHS courtesy of the Laconia and Alton Fire Departments.
Deputy Chief Beland and Chief Hayes of the Gilford Fire Department. They solemnly rang the Fire Bell as NH's Fallen were honored.
Belmont and Gilford Fire Department bagpipers provided traditional music for the ceremonies
Gilford Police (left) and National Guard Color Guard.
Gilford Fire Department Color Guard
The Invocation Prayer for the ceremony.
The raising, and the lowering to half staff, of the American and NH flags
Opening remarks by the Gilford School Board Chair, Derek Tomlinson
Remarks by Gilford Selectman Dennis Doten
The stirring and patriotic Address was given by Lt. Colonel Kurt Webber, US Army (Ret.) of the Gilford School Board.
Sgt. Lavacca, who served with Specialist Nicholas Cournoyer, read from a poem honoring his fallen comrade.
Remarks by Karen Thurston (Gilford) of the Blue Star Mothers.
Presentation of the Gold Star Banner to the Cournoyer Family.
Reading of the list of those NH residents that have fallen in service of our country.
