100s Gathered At Town Beach For Inaugural Light The Night Celebration

EAST HAVEN, CT — On a chilly October night under the clear autumn sky at the East Haven Town Beach, the American Legion Post 89 Auxiliary hosted its inaugural 'Light the Night Celebration' to remember and honor those who have passed away.

Lanterns were lit in the well-attended "breathtaking night" filled with words of remembrance, smiles, tears, and heavy hearts, said Auxiliary member Michelle Benivegna.

The event offered an opportunity for people to celebrate the memories of loved ones – whether lost recently or years ago – by decorating a floating, candlelit lantern in their honor.

Attendees purchased a lantern packet for $10, which included the lantern, candle, permanent
waterproof maker and matches. Paper lantern sleeves were decorated with favorite pictures, messages of love, and other symbols of remembrance. At dusk, in the "beautiful ceremony" attendees gathered to release their lanterns into Long Island Sound while the names of loved ones are read aloud. The effect of the candlelit lanterns floating on the ocean was breathtaking and magical, connecting people to their loved ones and to each other.

The American Legion Post 89 Auxiliary had been inactive for many years and renewed meetings in March 2022, Benivegna said. "Celebrating its 100th year and with this tremendous milestone, it seemed fitting to bring back the Auxiliary."

Each member of the Auxiliary has ties to veterans through fathers, husbands, daughters, wives and grandparents, she explained. Its mission is to support the American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who served by enhancing veteran, military, and their families' lives at home and abroad.

The proceeds from the 'Light the Night Celebration' will go to the American Legion Post 89 Auxiliary Scholarship Fund.

This will be an annual event for the Auxiliary and is anticipated to grow in size, be able to touch many more hearts and its proceeds will continue to help many students of veterans," Benivegna said.