Page 14 - The Indian EYE 052424

North The Indian Eye

AMERICANNewsline

14 MAY 24, 2024

BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham

Honors US Veterans

OUR BUREAU families of veterans and active-duty
U.S. Armed Forces. Families are the
Robbinsville, NJ
foundation of our nation’s strength
n May 11, 2024, the BAPS and resilience that enable our armed
Swaminarayan Akshard- forces to serve with purpose.
Oham hosted its second an- BAPS Swaminarayan Akshard-
nual Veterans Appreciation Day ham is a landmark of Hindu architec-
with more than 140 veterans from ture and culture. It stands as a sym-
four branches of the United States bol of unity, harmony, and selfless
Armed Forces and their families in service and bridges the heritage of
attendance. ancient India with modern America.
It was a day of remembrance Created by BAPS, under the inspira-
and appreciation for the dedication tion of its spiritual leaders Pramukh
and commitment of the U.S. Armed Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami
Forces to the nation. Maharaj, this spiritual sanctuary em-
BAPS and the local community bodies their visionary guidance and
celebrated and appreciated the ser- unwavering commitment to human-
vice, courage, and commitment of ity and is open to all.
the current and former members of Akshardham came to life
the U.S. Military. They gathered to through the dedication of thousands
honor the brave men and women of volunteers from different walks of
who have selflessly served the nation. life and from across the globe, mak-
The ceremony was led by Capt. emony where the American flag is giving him the opportunity to com- ing it a unique expression of love.
Medina Wilson, Director of the carried and displayed, conducted by memorate his fellow Veterans at the Over a span of fifteen years, this
Mercer County Veteran Services Master Sergeant Joshua Strouse and Veterans Appreciation Day at Ak- effort meticulously embraced the
and proud veteran of the United the Color Guard from McGuire Air shardham. Hindu architectural traditions and
States Army. Force Base. A highlight of the event was resulted in the creation of a master-
The event commenced with a Both BAPS and our U.S. Mil- a heartfelt pinning ceremony per- piece that will withstand the test of
Hindu Vedic prayer for peace and a itary are rooted in the spirit of ser- formed by Staff Sergeant Harish time. Built to last a thousand years,
beautiful duet of the American na- vice and greatly value selflessly giv- Rao as a token of BAPS’ apprecia- Akshardham stands strong, impart-
tional anthem by BAPS youths. This ing back to society. Command Chief tion for Veterans’ unwavering dedi- ing timeless messages of peace, hope,
was followed by the presentation Master Sergeant, Mike Ferraro cation. The presentation also recog- and harmony to future generations.
of colors, a traditional military cer- shared deep gratitude to BAPS for nized and acknowledged the role of More details at usa.akshardham.org

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