Westport town officials braved Monday's rainy weather honor those who have served, despite the cancelation of the Memorial Day parade.
A ceremony was held inside town hall and the parade's grand marshal, 101-year-old Herbert "Herb" Podell spoke before attendees.
Podell is a Navy veteran who served in the Pacific during World War II as an aviation and electronics specialist. During his military service, Podell's unit focused on preparing for a planned invasion of Japan.
During Podell's speech, he called on politicians to avoid wars and encourage people to get involved in the community.
Podell has lived in Westport since 1965 and spent decades volunteering. He remains an active member at the Westport Center for Senior Activities and regular participates in events there.