At this week’s Town Council meeting, Mayor Kevin Foy took a moment to honor Chapel Hill’s veterans.

Participants observed a moment of silence as a color guard made up of Chapel Hill firefighters carried the United States and North Carolina flags to the front of the room. All veterans present at the meeting were recognized, including council members Matt Czajkowski, who served in the Navy, and Jim Merritt, who was awarded the Purple Heart for his service in the Vietnam War.

Chapel Hill Police Captain Leo Vereen accepted the proclamation on behalf of all town employees. Before joining the police force, Vereen served in the Army as a First Sergeant for 23 years. His wife retired as a Sergeant First Class, and his son has served as a drill sergeant for 16 years.

Vereen says military experience is a valuable asset to any employer.

Vereen’s nephew, Larry Graves, is a Chapel Hill firefighter currently serving his second tour of duty in Afghanistan.