Nov. 16—Hi
Uncasville — The 10th annual Vets Rock event, featuring programs aimed at improving the lives and opportunities for veterans and active-duty military personnel, took place Saturday afternoon at Mohegan Sun.
With 1,000 guests in attendance throughout the day, the event sought to connect veterans with fellow service members, service organizations, job opportunities and support resources.
The day began with an opening ceremony hosted by WTNH Channel 8 chief meteorologist Gil Simmons. The Tribal Color Guard participated in the ceremony, various speakers from Mohegan Sun’s executive team addressed the audience, and the Griswold High School choir performed a rendition of Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA.”
“We’re really excited that we’ve been able to do so much over the course of the last 10 years, and (we’re) looking forward to 10 more years,” said Jeff Hamilton, Mohegan Sun’s president and general manager.
All Paws on Deck, a non-profit dedicated to finding sheltered dogs homes, hosted an adoption event at the exposition. Todd Stiles, 39, a retired Army veteran from Oakdale, adopted Ascher, an energetic five-month-old Great Dane.
Stiles, who is attending Vets Rock for the second year in a row, says what drew him back was the sense of community and camaraderie he experiences with other veterans.
“It’s a different type of community that most aren’t used to. It’s a bunch of crazy guys and girls that love each other unconditionally. It’s great,” Stiles said. “It’s nice to know you have a network around here.”
In the main event room, Clinton-based band Bluewater Boys played upbeat, buoyant sounds as veterans communed and met with exhibitors and fellow attendees. Various organizations, including the Office of Senator Richard Blumenthal, Everlasting Veteran, LLC and the American Legion Department of Connecticut ensured veterans knew support resources were available.
Sandra Spedaliere, a retired Navy dental technician who served for 20 years, spent her…