Photo by Lester Smith
Young Tristan Bermani, 6, provides body English for his throw in a “washer toss in a coffee can” version of the cornhole game during this year’s memorial picnic for Cpl. Stephen R. Bixler.
It’s been ten years since USMC Cpl. Stephen R. Bixler’s heroic death in combat operations in Iraq, and while his ninth annual picnic was an enjoyable outing, it was clear that no one forgot the reason they were there. Some 150 people gathered at the Suffield Sportsmen’s Cabin on May 29 for the occasion in good picnic weather for pleasant sociability, typical picnic games, and an extraordinary buffet spread in the cabin.
As usual, Rep. Joe Courtney was present, along with Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman and State Rep. Tami Zawistowski.
An important purpose of the party was to raise funds for the memorial fund in Stephen’s name, which provides grants to many deserving individuals and organizations, with emphasis on veterans. Steve’s father, Richard Bixler, announced that the fund had raised over $75,000 over the years, not including this year. He thanked Anne and Mike Rossi and others in the little group that has met for breakfast monthly to administer the fund and plan the picnic that supports it. He also thanked all those who provided the picnic feast (including some great chicken breasts Italiano from the “90 Meat Outlet” in Enfield!) and the immense quantity of raffle and silent auction prizes. Anne Rossi advised later that over $9,000 was raised this year. She asked the Observer to extend her heartfelt thanks to all those who helped to make the picnic a huge success.
Three of those who have been helped by the Bixler fund spoke at the picnic. Amy Reay explained how she was able to obtain her service dog, Delancey, with the fund’s help. Having totally lost her hearing as a young adult, she reported that Delancey has changed her life for the better. Jim Hunter, of Suffield’s Landry-Sic VFW Post, thanked the fund for help with improved lighting. And Priscilla Brayson, director of the Loaves and Fishes soup kitchen in Thompsonville, spoke about the help that was provided for a new oven.
Before the event closed with the customary long recitation of winning raffle tickets, Rich Bixler introduced a song he felt was particularly appropriate. The recording was by country & western singer Jimmy Fortune, and the song was “More Than a Name on the Wall.” As one who has found the Viet Nam Memorial Wall to be a moving experience, this writer can attest to the emotions that such a song can evoke.