The East Boston Memorial Day Ceremony was held in Central Square on May 27 in honor of the 37,000 Massachusetts residents who lost their lives in service to the country since the Revolutionary War. Over 500 flags were placed in Alfred L. Bertulli Park and along Liverpool Street by officers of the Boston Police Department District A-7 in memory of those from East Boston who were killed in action since WWII.
“We are here because we hold space for every serviceman and woman who put the country and its people before themselves,” said Councilor Gigi Coletta. “We uplift Gold Star families for their sacrifice, as well. It’s easy to lose sight of what today really means. Society immerses themselves in a weekend of leisure. What we should remember is we are able to lead lives of abundance and prosperity because of our servicemen and women.”
Coletta laid a wreath in honor of those from East Boston who passed away during WWI. She affirmed her commitment to supporting veterans and their families so that they may lead healthy lives of fulfillment and peace.
“It’s critical that we remember there are some who never came home. There are POW’s and MIA’s that we may never see or hear from again,” said Representative Adrian Madaro. “For families who are still suffering the loss of loved ones, I salute you and thank you. To the brave men and women who served, I thank you for your service. Most importantly, we thank the men and women who never returned. Their sacrifice is what has made America the beautiful country that it is today.”
Madaro placed a wreath in honor of WWII and Korean War veterans. He recognized Memorial Day as a time of reflection and remembrance for those who fought in foreign nations to protect the freedoms of the United States, and did not return home.
“Not only do we have a storied history of men and women who fought, served, and made the ultimate sacrifice from East Boston; but we also have the largest JROTC program in the United States. They’re part of what makes East Boston so special,” acknowledged Madaro.
East Boston High School JROTC, along with the Boston Fire Department Honor Guard, presented the colors in preparation for the National Anthem, and lead a march along Liverpool Street to Veterans Park, where the veterans of Vietnam, Desert Storm, Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Global War on Terrorism were honored.
Following the services, lunch and refreshments were held at the Italian American War Veterans Post 6 (located at 60 Paris Street), which is open for the first time since 2003 because of the efforts of young veterans, members of the Boston Police Department, and residents.