At Friday's Veterans Day ceremony, Col. Joseph McGraw encouraged Mattapoisett residents to consider the cost of soldiers who gave their time and often their lives to protect freedom. And he said the burden doesn't fall on them alone.

“We all have a responsibility to ensure those rights are kept,” he said. “We all have skin in the game.”

McGraw, a teacher at Newport War College who has served in Iran and Afghanistan, spoke at the annual event, sponsored by the Florence Eastman American Legion Post and held at Old Hammondtown School.

The ceremony always highlights those who served in the military, but this year town officials and the American Legion also recognized someone who has been vital to supporting tri-town veterans.

Paula Butterfield, the assistant to the veterans agent, is retiring after 26 years of service and was honored for her resourcefulness and care for veterans and their families. She has also planned the Veterans Day ceremony for many years.

“We owe her a great round of applause for what she has done for the tri-town,” said Town Administrator Mike Gagne.

The surprised Butterield was presented with several plaques from local and state officials as well as bouquets from coworkers and friends.

“I'm going to miss all my veterans,” she said. “It's an honor and a privilege.”

American Legion Commander Michael Lamoureux commended Butterfield as well as the members of the Old Hammondtown School Chorus, who faced some technical difficulties with the music track.

The kids persevered, singing through the spotty music and “carrying on in adversity.”

“You did an excellent job,” said Veterans Agent Barry Denham. “It almost brought me to tears.”

In addition to patriotic songs performed by the chorus, the OHS Band performed “America the Beautiful” and “Grand Old Flag.”

George Randall recited the “Gettysburg Address,” a family tradition that he said he hopes to pass to his grandson soon.

In his speech, Selectman Paul Silva also voiced his hope in the younger generation.

“Who knows, we may have one of our future presidents sitting right here.”