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NORTON -- The sentiments came from the heart, as they always do, although the format was different.

Residents and local leaders packed the Norton Common at Fillmore-Nason Square to celebrate Veterans Day on Tuesday.

The Norton Veterans Council opted against a parade this year, citing problems with the town budget, participation and construction on Route 123.

That the veterans didn't march down Route 123 for the first time in decades didn't matter.

The crowd's size impressed Veterans Agent James Dinsel. "Thank you for coming out, and keeping the tradition alive and well in the town of Norton," Dinsel said, observing his first Veterans Day as Norton's veterans officer.

Selectmen Vice Chairman Timothy Giblin focused on a phrase: thank you.

People say it "probably a dozen times a day," to everyone from friends to store clerks, Giblin said.

When encountering veterans, though, "the words 'thank you' seem woefully insufficient," he said.

Giblin urged residents to, instead, "help a busy mother of two with her yard work while her husband is serving."

"True appreciation is expressed through deeds, not just words," Giblin said.

State Rep. Jay Barrows, R-Mansfield, noted that Americans have served during every war.

"For over 200 years, there's been one constant: They've put their nation's interests before their own, and asked for little in return," said Barrows, who noted his son recently joined the Alaska National Guard after having served four years in the Army.

"We've asked much of you, and you have given even more in return."

Dinsel shared a story he read about the origin of "Taps." It dates back to the Civil War, he said. Later, the crowd heard "Taps" played by Herbert Church, past commander of Norton American Legion Post 222, after volleys by the firing squad of the 20th Massachusetts Regiment, Company D.

Two local pastors led those gathered in prayer: the Rev. Bernard Hinckley of the Trinitarian Congregational Church, and the Rev. Marc Tremblay of St. Mary's Church.

Tremblay also is chaplain of the Norton Fire Department.

Norton Police Chief Brian Clark also spoke during the ceremony.

Four groups were represented by their color guards: the police and fire departments, the VFW and the American Legion.

Refreshments followed at the Legion and VFW halls.

More traditional festivities are planned for Memorial Day.

"We can all look forward to a parade on Memorial Day this year," said master of ceremonies Edward Brault, past commander of Fillmore-Nason VFW Post 8049.

MICHAEL GELBWASSER covers Norton for The Sun Chronicle. He can be reached at 508-236-0439 or at mgelbwasser@thesunchronicle.com.