ITHACA, NY (CortacaToday) – Today, America honors its veterans.

Ceremonies are taking place this morning in Dewitt Park in Ithaca, the Dryden Village Green, and the Groton American Legion. It’s also Veterans Week in Tompkins County after a proclamation from the full legislature.

Director of Veterans Services J.R. Clairborne says more events are planned today and throughout the week in Tompkins County. This afternoon there will be a commemoration at Cornell followed by a chimes concert at the clocktower, a lasagna dinner at the Ithaca American Legion, and a Watchfire at Cortland’s Central New York Living History Center. Lifelong in Ithaca will be providing sweet treats and coffee for veterans until 4 p.m. For more info, click here.

Veterans Services Director J.R. Clairborne speaks at the meeting of the Tompkins County Legislature

Clairborne, who served with the U.S. Navy and Naval Air Reserve, says if you come across a vet, reach out, even if it’s just to say thank you.

He adds in contemporary times, it’s as important as ever to recognize service members.

 

 

Veterans Services Director J.R. Clairborne speaks at the meeting of the Tompkins County Legislature

 

The Veterans Services Director also says simple acts of support, like shining a green light, can be a huge morale boost for veterans.

A comprehensive list of events for today, this week, and the month can be found on the Veterans Services portion of the Tompkins County website.