Residents are encouraged to thank members of the armed forces for their service on a daily basis. On Sunday, Wilmington will have the perfect opportunity to do just that.

The town holds its annual Veterans Day ceremony on Town Common Sunday at 11 a.m., including a variety of speakers and several groups of the military represented.

“The crowd we get is the best part,” said Veteran’s Agent Lou Cimaglia. “Over the past seven or eight years, the crowds have grown bigger every time. It means a lot to see a Town Common full of people who took the time out of their day to thank the veterans. That means a lot to me.”

While Cimaglia is normally the emcee for the event, this year he won’t be able to attend. Cimaglia will be representing Local Heroes as he packs boxes with other volunteers and then helps stretch a large American flag across the field of Gillette Stadium prior to the New England Patriots game.

Board of Selectmen chairman Mike Newhouse will take Cimaglia’s spot at the microphone, leading the morning’s ceremony.

Cimaglia said it’s been a difficult several months for him, helping veterans who are struggling with a long list of issues when they return from duty.

Suicide is a real threat for veterans, and it’s something that has happened in Wilmington multiple times over recent years. According to Cimaglia, 20 percent of all suicides are by veterans.

“There is help out there,” said Cimaglia. “There are so many things out there, but these men and women have to know they can reach out for help. They’re not alone.” 

It’s because of these issues that Cimaglia said that a little handshake and “thank you” to a veteran does more good than you may think.

“A lot of people thank veterans this time of year, but it has to be year round,” said Cimaglia. “A little thank you goes such a long way for these guys. If you see someone in uniform, just say thank you. You’d be surprised how much it means.”