Colchester

“Each year, I’m floored by the generosity and courage of the speakers at this event, and heartened by seeing so many community members willing to come and listen, with warmth and non-judgment,” wrote Eaton after Sunday’s Town Hall. Marty McMahon, who hosted the St. Johnsbury event, said it opened a conversation between veterans and civilians. “We listened to a wide range of perspectives on service and laid the groundwork for some great community dialogue in St. Johnsbury and the area.”

Some veterans discussed post-traumatic stress and the difficulties of reintegration; some talked about survivor’s guilt; others described combat in detail. While community members often seemed to hold their breath, eyes stinging and glued to the podium, the room also burst into laughter when confronted with stories of lost toes and being an army cook.