Veterans Day ceremony in Bristol

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BRISTOL, R.I. (WLNE): Governor Gina Raimondo led the state’s official Veterans Day proceedings to honor those who have served. 

Held at the Rhode Island Veterans Home, veterans and their families listened to elected officials, including Congressman Cicilline and Peter Neronha. They also sang songs to pay tribute to our nation’s heroes. 

The room was filled with veterans all with their own unique story. 

Amie SanSouci is 96 years old but remembers his time serving in World War II like it was yesterday. 

“You never knew what to expect and you never knew what could happen,” SanSouci said. “You could get hit and then it’s all over with ” 

SanSouci served in the army as a private in the infinity in Italy in 1944. After he was wounded, he was sent to France as a caretaker for German prisoners. Just talking about his experience brought tears to his eyes. 

“When you are out on the lines, you just meet so many buddies,” SanSouci said as he fought back tears. “The fellows you could not help that were dying. But there was nothing you could do about it, you just had to keep going.” 

SanSouci said his family in Fall River kept him going. Despite the fear that comes back, he said Veterans Day is a reminder of why he is proud to serve our country. 

“Being able to have freedom,” he said. “A lot of people don’t realize how lucky they are. This is a beautiful country we live in.”