Westfield State Celebrates Veterans Day with Ceremony and Honor Flight Documentary Screening

On November 6, Westfield State University, with community support from the 104th Fighter Wing, honored the legacy of loyalty and service this Veterans Day with a ceremony led by Robert Vigneault, United States Air Force veteran and Director of Veteran and Military Services at the University. This year’s theme emphasized the enduring dedication of service members across generations and featured key speakers which highlighted both individual and communal experiences.

Key speakers included Chris Cekovsky, Commandant of the Marine Corps League Detachment 141 in Westfield; Melanie Casineau, Public Affairs Officer with the 104th Fighter Wing at Barnes Air National Guard Base; Josue “Alex” Ramos, Navy veteran and former Veterans Affairs work-study student at Holyoke Community College; David Doe, Army Vietnam veteran and Professor of Biology, Emeritus, at Westfield State; and Jacquelyn Wolf, Army veteran and Coordinator of Veteran and Military Services at Springfield College.

“We had a range of people who talked about a day in the life and how they went through training, which is really interesting,” Vigneault said. “We wanted to showcase not just one person, but a legacy of loyalty and service across the board. It was really special.”

The ceremony also featured a moving tribute with the POW/MIA Table, symbolizing the sacrifices of prisoners of war and missing comrades. Decorated with meaningful colors, food items, and symbolic objects, the table honored those who remain unaccounted for and those who pledge to remember and honor them.

Summarizing the event, Vigneault encouraged veterans to connect with their community, reflecting on his own transition from military service. “You’re not alone. When I transitioned from the military, it was a hard road, so I understand the trials and tribulations that you encounter. However, I also focus on mental health. My passion  is  helping veterans, and any time I talk to one, you can see an immediate connection. For us, it’s heartfelt. You’re not alone.”

The following day, on November 7, the Military and Veteran Services office also hosted a special screening of Honor Flight: The Movie, a powerful documentary that tells the story of Honor Flight, a national program dedicated to transporting veterans to Washington, D.C., free of charge, to visit the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice. The event also featured a guest appearance by Dan Sparks, President of Honor Flight Connecticut (HFCT), who spoke about his experiences leading these heartfelt journeys.

Additionally, Sparks also described the significance of his work, highlighting an Honor Flight that took place on September 28, 2024. Honor Flight originally focused on World War II veterans but has since expanded to include veterans from the Korean and Vietnam Wars as well. Each honored veteran traveled at no cost, accompanied by a guardian, who can be a relative or a volunteer. HFCT, which flies out of Bradley International Airport, is especially convenient for veterans in Western Massachusetts and northwestern Connecticut. The movie screening aimed to raise awareness and draw support from the local community, veterans, guardians, and anyone interested in the sendoff and homecoming ceremonies of the Honor Flights.

Vigneault revealed plans for another Honor Flight in the spring, with another movie screening to build momentum. “We’re going to plan another honor flight in the spring,” he remarked. “The date hasn’t been set yet, but they’re talking to the airline right now about charting an airplane. We’re going to do another movie screening right before that, because it’s all covered by donated money, and Honor Flight: The Movie goes more into depth about how the funds come about. If you’re going to come and watch the movie, bring tissues. It’s a perfect movie. It has the action, the romance, and the sad and happy parts.”

As the University continues its commitment to veterans, Vigneault urged the community to listen to their stories and create spaces for understanding the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life. “Every veteran’s story is unique,” he said. “Events like these offer community, connection, and the chance to honor their sacrifices.”

Veterans and supporters are encouraged to attend future ceremonies and screenings, ensuring their legacy of service is celebrated and remembered.