Patrick Administration Honors MA Veterans and their Families
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
“Today we express our gratitude, pride and support for the Massachusetts military personnel who protect our interests around the world,” said Governor Patrick. “This Veterans Day we acknowledge all veterans’ dedication and service, as we reinforce our commitment to making opportunities and resources available to the Massachusetts men and women who have served, and continue to serve us.”
Through Chapter 115 financial assistance, the Commonwealth provides over $60 million annually to assist veterans and eligible dependents with food, shelter, supplies and medical care. The Commonwealth also provides an additional $21 million in annuity payments for disabled veterans and Gold Star Families.
“It is an honor to be able to thank the men and women who have chosen to serve,” said HHS Secretary Polanowicz. “While we recognize veterans and their families for their sacrifice today, we must continue to support them every day when they return home. The Patrick Administration continues to advance innovative programs and partnerships that help veterans and their families find personal and professional success across our Commonwealth.”
DVS currently operates two outreach teams, Statewide Advocacy for Veterans' Empowerment (SAVE) and Statewide Housing Advocacy Reintegration and Prevention (S.H.A.R.P.), which provide peer support and navigation to thousands of veterans across the Commonwealth in the areas of crisis intervention, jail diversion and homeless prevention.
“On Veterans Day, we come together collectively to honor the brave men and women who have served in our armed forces” said Secretary Nee. “We honor the men and women of generations past and those who are currently serving overseas helping our nation stay safe. To all of our veterans, we say thank you for your service.”
During the ceremony, Governor Patrick announced $2 million in funding to repair the historic War Memorial Tower atop Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Mount Greylock State Reservation.
The rehabilitation of the War Memorial Tower is expected to be completed by August of 2016.
The Adjutant General for Massachusetts, Major General L. Scott Rice gave the keynote address.
The Administration welcomed Medal of Honor Recipient and former DVS Commissioner Captain Tom Hudner. Captain Hudner was presented with a Chelsea Clock by Governor Deval Patrick in recognition of his service to the nation and his service to the Commonwealth as Commissioner of DVS from 1991-1999.
The Massachusetts Medals of Liberty were presented to the Belanger, Sherman and Demarisco Families for the loss of their loved ones in Iraq and Afghanistan. The Massachusetts Medal of Liberty is open to all branches of the service and is awarded in the name of the Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as Commander-in-Chief of the Commonwealth to any Massachusetts serviceman or woman killed in action or who died as a result of wounds received in action.
Also being honored were members of the Puerto Rican Veterans Monument Square Association for their service in the Armed Forces and their efforts to dedicate the first memorial in the nation honoring Puerto Rican veterans.
The State House ceremony also included a special tribute to women veterans, POWs and Gold Star Families.
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