The local Veterans of Foreign Wars post is calling for New Canaanites to support its effort to place a year on the gravestone of those who have served and buried in New Canaan.
Wreaths placed on the graves of veterans buried in New Canaan. Contributed
This year, some 985 wreaths were placed on the grave sites veterans from the French and Indian War, Revolutionary War, Civil War, First and Second World Wars, Korean War and Vietnam War, for a total cost of more than $,9000, according to town resident Peter C. Langenus, commander of New Canaan VFW Post 653, who served as a U.S. Army captain in Vietnam and as a colonel during Operation Desert Storm.
“Not one penny or dollar of taxpayer money is used to fund this annual project,” Langenus said. “The cost of this annual project increases each year as the number of veterans honored increases each year.”
Many New Canaanites will know Langenus, who has helped to lead solemn services following the Memorial Day parade as well as on Veterans Day.
Police Chief Leon Krolikowski, a U.S. Marines veteran, raises money for VFW Post 653 at the CIAC semifinal football game. Credit: Michael Dinan
Langenus and the VFW are asking locals to donate to the VFW in order to support the nonprofit organization’s wreath program, launched many years ago with the New Canaan Exchange Club.
“Making a donation will help us honor all New Canaan veterans for their bravery, service and sacrifice,” Langenus said. “We can never repay the debt we owe to our New Canaan veterans, but your generous donation ensures that we will never forget them.”
Checks can be made out to “Post 653, New Canaan VFW” and sent to PO Box 653, New Canaan, CT 06840. Residents are asked contact Langenus at newcanaanvfw@gmail.com or 203-966-7480 with questions.