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Kindness, Approachability, and Dedication

I’m writing to describe the special relationship my husband Bob and I have enjoyed with First Selectman Tom Banisch over the last five years. Many of your readers know that Bob and I are the parents of Special Forces Soldier Captain Andrew M. Pedersen Keel, who lost his life in service to our nation March 11, 2013.

Subsequent to our loss, we’ve had many patriotic opportunities to engage with the Town of Madison, many because of the awareness and kindness of Tom.

Tom enthusiastically endorsed the project to erect the memorial road sign on Route 79, “Captain Andrew Pedersen Keel Memorial Highway.” Tom was instrumental in using donated funds from Swan Funeral Home to help erect the beautiful Gold Star Families Memorial that beautifies our town center in front of Memorial Hall.

As a member of the Veterans Advisory Board, I invited Tom to attend one of our meetings, where he pledged support that the board might need. As the newly elected president of the Connecticut Gold Star Mothers, I went to Tom to ask for encouragement about holding our first meeting at the elegant Madison Beach Hotel to allow our mothers to feel indulged. Working with American Legion Post 79, Commander Donna Farrell and Tom treated the mothers to not only a beautiful venue, but ensured we were treated to our luncheon.

Finally, Tom and his wife Eileen have been enthusiastic supporters of our annual APKCharities Ruck/Race/Walk event designed to highlight our armed services members. I don’t know many in town, but I do know Tom, and he has been an excellent government representative to the needs Bob and I have expressed. I admire his faith, as I see him pray at St. Margaret’s Church. His kindness, approachability, and dedication to and love of Madison are wonderful attributes.

Helen Keiser Pedersen

Madison