By Anne Galloway, VTDigger
Organizers say Gov. Phil Scott’s inaugural gala was the largest in the state’s history. More than 1,200 people attended the event.
Scott, the newly sworn in Republican governor, celebrated his inauguration at a helicopter hangar at the Vermont Air Guard complex in South Burlington Saturday night, Jan. 7.
The cavernous hangar was bathed in blue light and partygoers grooved to classic rock tunes by Blue Jay Way, a Rutland band.
The overt military theme was underscored by the presence of dozens of uniformed Vermont National Guard and Air Guard personnel. A Black Hawk helicopter was on display, along with several vintage Army motorcycles.
In brief remarks, Scott made a point of thanking military personnel for their service to the country and recounted his own father’s sacrifice on D-Day where he lost both his legs.
The laid-back gala was a tripartisan affair with Progressives, Democrats and Republicans in attendance.
“Their attendance proves what a special place Vermont really is,” Scott said.