The Norwalk Veterans Memorial Committee is chartered by the City of Norwalk to organize and manage all major patriotic events within the local community. The three major annual events−the Memorial Day Parade, the ceremony at the Shea-Magrath Memorial, and the Veterans Day Ceremony−are described elsewhere on this site. In recent years, the NVMC has also sponsored essay contests (e.g., Black History Month, D-Day commemoration, Vietnam Memorial replica visit), presented books to schools ("The Greatest Generation," by Tom Brokaw), provided guest speakers to our schools, and honored several Norwalkers for their service to the local veterans' community. Each year, a contingent from the committee visits every cemetery and city park to replace worn and tattered American flags. Among current activities are the sponsorship of an essay contest for Norwalk school children and scheduling an appearance by the elite United States Coast Guard Silent Drill Team. The essay contest focuses on honoring American women who have served with distinction in our nation's armed forces from the Revolution to the present. The USCG DT will perform as part of the annual ceremony at the Shea-Magrath Memorial on Sunday, May 23. Prizes ($500, $300, $100) will be presented to the best essay writers at this ceremony. As veterans, we strive to continue to serve our community, our comrades, and our great nation. We welcome requests for our services or suggestions about expanding them. Second Company, Governor's Foot Guard, marching in the Norwalk Memorial Day Parade.