May 27, 2025 |Holidays, LCTV News, News, Veterans

Veterans and Military Community Members Honored at Inaugural Statewide Military Appreciation Day

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Senator Crighton, House Minority Leader Jones, Representative Armini, Representative Cahill, and Representative Reid proudly honored veterans and service members from Lynn, Lynnfield, Marblehead, Nahant, and throughout the Commonwealth at the first-ever Military Appreciation Day ceremony held in the Massachusetts State House’s historic House Chamber on May 22, 2025.

Military Appreciation Day was created by the Healey-Driscoll Administration to establish a lasting annual tradition that brings together local, state, and community leaders to honor those whose service might otherwise go unrecognized. Each legislator was invited to nominate a member of their local military community—whether a veteran, active-duty service member, National Guard, Reservist, or military spouse—to be honored during the ceremony. More than 125 individuals who exemplify commitment to service and community were recognized from districts across Massachusetts.

The delegation honored Richie Lombard of Nahant, Bob Lennon of Lynn, David Rodgers of Marblehead, Joseph Connell of Lynnfield, and Elvira Figueroa of Boston.

“Each of these individuals exemplify dedication to this country and their community. I was proud to nominate Richie Lombard as an honoree for Military Appreciation Day. Public service is a foundational attribute of Richie’s life, extending from his service as a Marine to the instrumental role he played in local government in Nahant. Richie, and all of those nominated for Military Appreciation Day, are individuals who have contributed to the freedoms and democracy we enjoy today.”

Senator Brendan Crighton

“It was an honor to participate in Military Appreciation Day to thank our local veterans, service members and military spouses for their service to our nation, and to nominate Ret. Colonel Joseph Connell of Lynnfield for recognition,” said House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones, Jr. (R-North Reading). “The construction of the Veterans Memorial was truly a collaborative effort involving the members of the Lynnfield Veterans Memorial Committee and many other volunteers throughout Lynnfield, but there is no doubt that Colonel Connell was the driving force and impetus behind this project, from its initial conception in 2016 to its completion last year. The Lynnfield Veterans Memorial is an inspiring, impressive, and moving memorial to all of Lynnfield’s veterans, and represents just one of the many ways Colonel Connell has given back to his country and to his community.”

“Whether it’s David Rodgers in Marblehead or the remarkable honorees from Lynn, each one of these individuals represents the very best of our Commonwealth,” said Representative Jenny Armini. “Their service, both in uniform and in our communities, reflects a deep and enduring commitment to something greater than themselves. It’s a privilege to shine a light on their contributions and to say thank you on behalf of all of us.”

“It is an honor to recognize Elvira Figueroa as part of Military Appreciation Day,” said Representative Dan Cahill. “Elvira has exemplified a life of service – to our country as a member of the United States Army, to our commonwealth as a research analyst on the Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security, and to our community through her dedicated work helping hundreds of Lynn residents as a legislative aide. Her commitment, integrity, and tireless advocacy represent the very best of public service.”

“Bob exemplifies the true definition of service,” said Representative Sean Reid. “It was an honor to nominate in recognition of his countless contributions to our country, our Commonwealth, and our community right here in Lynn.”

The ceremony featured remarks from Governor Maura Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, Veterans Services Secretary Jon Santiago, Senate President Karen Spilka, and a keynote address by General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr. (Ret.), former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and 36th Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps.

The keynote address was delivered by General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr. (Ret.), former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and 36th Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps. A Boston native and one of the most distinguished military leaders in recent history, General Dunford spoke about the legacy of service, leadership, and community and the importance of honoring those who serve across generations.

The program also featured a powerful performance of the National Anthem by Springfield native and NBC’s The Voice finalist Michelle Brooks-Thompson. Following the ceremony, honorees and guests were invited to a lunch reception generously donated by the Military Friends Foundation, a Massachusetts nonprofit dedicated to providing support and emergency assistance to military families and families of the fallen.

The above press release and photograph were submitted to us by Senator Brendan Crighton’s office.