NORWICH – A local businessman addressed the City of Norwich Common Council on Tuesday night, asking that May 1 through June 14 be declared Military Appreciation Month.

“I’m here for the veterans of the Military in the United States,” said Edward Downey. The local businessman, who is a veteran himself, pointed out that during the time frame mentioned, the nation celebrates Memorial Day, D-Day, Armed Forces Day, Navy, Army and Flag Day.

Downey explained that he has spent 30 years in the military, currently serving in the Reserves. “We all have relatives or know someone. There is not one person in this room who has not been touched by a member of the military in some way,” Downey said.