Bellingham Veterans Day, 2022

Bellingham Public Library was packed for the town’s annual Veterans Day Ceremony this year. After presentation of the colors by The Blackstone Valley Young Marines, the National Anthem performed by Robert Oliver III, and an invocation by Pastor Baron Rodrigues of the First Baptist Church, Bellingham Library Director Bernadette Rivard welcomed guests, and Jim Hastings, from the Bellingham Memorial and Veterans Day Committee, gave opening remarks. Featured guest speakers included Bellingham residents James Begley, (US Nav-RET) and Bill Eltzroth (US Nav-RET), with Lt. Col. Andrew A. White, Commander for the US Army Garrison at Natick Soldier Systems Center as keynote speaker. 

Lt. Col. White began with a discussion of Armistice Day’s origins, quoting Gen. Douglas MacArthur in that it is the soldier who must suffer the wounds of war, acknowledging the service and sacrifice “of the men and women who have donned the uniform and defended this country,” adding “I can tell you, I have served in the company of heroes,” and that “may we feel a deep sense of gratitude for the service and sacrifice of veterans” and their families.

Following guest speakers, Lori Fafard presented the three winners of the 2022 Veterans’ Day 4th Grade Memorial School poster contest. They included Logan King, Addison Boyer and Leah Taychack. 

Following that presentation and Oliver’s performance of “Possible Dream,” Rep. Mike Soter gave remarks, encouraging guests to remember veterans have fought for freedom and democracy and not to let that die. Soonafter, Andrew Bolliro, of The Blackstone Valley Young  Marines, was recognized for his contributions, Pastor David Mullen, of St. Brendan’s Church, gave closing remarks, and the proceedings moved outdoors for laying of the wreath by James Begley, Bill Eltzroth, and Andrew A. White. Chaplain Rick Marcoux (RET) of Bellingham Fire Department, gave final closing remarks.

Shown are some images of the event.