May 22, 2026 |Lynn's State Delegation, News, State of MA, Veterans

Veterans and Service Members Honored at Statewide Military Appreciation Day

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Residents from Lynn, Marblehead, and Nahant Among Honorees

From the Office of State Senator Brendan Crighton: Senator Brendan Crighton, Representative Dan Cahill, Representative Jenny Armini, Representative Sean Reid, and Representative Donald Wong proudly honored service members and veterans at the second annual Military Appreciation Day at the Massachusetts State House.

The delegation was proud to nominate Robert J. Quinn, Jr. of Lynn, David Solimine of Lynn, Calvin Titus of Marblehead, and Dana Sheehan of Nahant.

“Each of our nominees represent dedication and service to both their communities and to our country, and we are proud to recognize their contributions to the freedom and democracy we have today,” said Senator Brendan Crighton. “In addition to his service in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, Bob Quinn has been a dedicated volunteer with Operation Troop Support for over two decades. His compassion, sense of duty, and commitment to the military community are why we are proud to nominate him for recognition at Military Appreciation Day.”

“David Solimine has spent a lifetime serving Lynn with quiet generosity, steadfast leadership, and unwavering civic pride,” said State Representative Dan Cahill. “From his years of military service and building a family business rooted in compassion, to decades of support for veterans, charitable organizations, students, families, and neighbors in need, David has helped shape the heart and spirit of this community. A proud son of Lynn, he has dedicated himself to lifting others, preserving tradition, and strengthening the city he has always called home. His legacy is one of service, kindness, and an enduring commitment to the people of Lynn.”

“Cal Titus’s ethos is service first—service to his country, community, and of course, to his family,” said State Representative Jenny Armini. “Honoring this Marblehead treasure is an honor for me.

“We are so grateful to have many leaders who have served our country and now continue to serve the community in various ways,” said State Representative Sean Reid. “Mr. Sheehan is a shining example of this type of selfless leadership and unwavering dedication to helping others.”

“We are proud to honor our nominees on this special day,” said State Representative Donald Wong. “We are deeply grateful for their courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to protecting our freedoms.”

Bob Quinn, Jr. served in the United States Marine Corps from January 6, 1966, to December 10, 1968. He attained the rank of Corporal and served in combat during the Vietnam War. He has continued to serve at home through decades of unwavering support for fellow veterans. He is an active member of the Lynn Veterans Council and DAV Chapter 64, where he remains committed to advocating for and assisting those who have served.

David Solimine joined the Air National Guard, serving from 1953 to 1959. He had assignments at Logan Airport in Boston, Otis Air Force Base on Cape Cod, and Grenier Air Force in Manchester, New Hampshire. He worked with his parents in the family greenhouse business as a wholesale grower before changing careers and establishing Solimine Funeral Homes in 1965. Dave was married for 65 years to the late Mary Jane (Melanson) Solimine, who died in 2023. He has 4 children, 14 Grandchildren and 11 Great Grandchildren. Dave has been an active member of the Lynn community for his entire life. He has held leadership roles in many organizations and currently is very involved in local Veterans’ organizations. He is a member of the Cpl. Scott J. Procopio/Capt. William G. Shoemaker Saugus American Legion Post 210. Dave has chaired the annual American Legion Flag Burning Ceremony for nearly 30 years and is chairing the 2026 Veterans and First Responders Parade in Lynn.

Calvin “Cal” Titus is a proud United States Marine Corps veteran and longtime member of the Marblehead community. He completed boot camp at Parris Island in October 1969 and served a nine-month tour in Vietnam from March to December 1970 before continuing in the active reserves until 1971. He later reenlisted and served from 1977 to 1979 at Camp Lejeune, attaining the rank of Corporal. Cal has continued his service at home as President of Marblehead VFW Post 2005, a dedicated volunteer with Wreaths Across America, and a steady supporter of veterans, local organizations, and the Town of Marblehead. Known for his humility and generosity, he has also given countless hours to youth sports, including baseball and football, and has been recognized for his community service and volunteer work in Marblehead.

Dana Sheehan is a proud U.S. Air Force veteran and active member of the Nahant community. After retiring from active duty, he continued his service with the Air National Guard. Dana was elected to the Nahant Housing Authority and serves as the Service Officer for American Legion Post 215. He was a part of the inaugural Nahant Purple Heart Advisory Committee and is a member of Nahant’s Advisory and Finance Committee. He is deeply committed to local service, volunteering at many events and initiatives, including the Veterans Mobile Food Market and the annual veterans beach party. Dana’s continued service reflects his strong dedication to supporting veterans and strengthening the Nahant community.

Photos courtesy of the Office of State Senator Brendan Crighton