In a somber ceremony under bright blue skies, Southborough honored its veterans yesterday. It was a ceremony that held special meaning for many.
World War II veteran Arthur Butler was there. Just last month Butler was awarded the Bronze Star for his service — an award he never knew he was eligible for. Butler also earned a Purple Heart after being wounded by a Japanese grenade in June 1945.
Veterans agent John Wilson — who was recently honored with the Good Scout award from the Southborough Boy Scouts — kicked off the ceremony on Thursday morning. He asked the crowd gathered at the All Wars Memorial to remember Southborough son Robert R. Foley Jr., who died on Veterans Day 43 years ago while serving in Vietnam.
Acknowledgments also went out to Southborough residents currently serving in the armed forces, including Matt Deschamps and Courtney Wilson. Wilson, a 1st lieutenant in the Army, was recently home on leave from Afghanistan, and made a special visit to Woodward. It’s a heartwarming story you can read about here.
For American Legion Commander Steve Whynot yesterday was a particularly meaningful – and emotional – day. Earlier in the week Whynot buried his friend of 43 years and fellow Navy man Paul “Buzzy” Buswell who passed away at the age of 60 after a battle with cancer. You can see Whynot in a tribute to his friend here.
Below are some photos of the ceremony below. Click to enlarge.
Sue – On behalf of John Wilson – American Legion Commander and Veterans Agent and myself as VFW Commander – we would like to thank all who joined us on Veterans Day to pay tribute to our men and women serving. As you noted – this was a memorable day to think of Bob Foley – who would now be about 61 yrs old and my good friend Buzzy who has now joined him. It was an emotional day and I certainly appreciate all who were present. Thank you for your coverage and providing very nice photo coverage of our observances. Thank You Southborough for joining us.
The Nation Which Forgets Its Defenders – Will Itself Be Forgotten. Let us Never Forget.