BOSTON – Senator Michael O. Moore (D-Millbury) and Representative David K. Muradian, Jr. (R-Grafton), recently honored all servicemen and servicewomen, active and retired, at the fifth annual event celebrating Armed Forces Day on May 18, 2019 organized by Representative Hannah E. Kane (R-Shrewsbury).
The two legislators were joined with their colleagues at SAC Park in Shrewsbury, where the ceremony commenced with the Grafton Job Corps Color Guard performing “Presentation of the Colors”. This was followed by a rendition of the National Anthem and “God Bless America”. Community members then presented the following readings: Armed Forces Day, Got Your Back, Honor Our Military, Liberty’s Call, and Thank a Vet. Senator Moore gave remarks on the US Marine Corps, and had the honor of introducing local Grafton High School students, Lauren Devito and Kylie Roche-Hein, to read Got Your Back. Representative Muradian had the privilege of introducing Justin Sousa, Director of the Central MA Veterans Service District.
“There is no greater honor than to recognize the dedication and sacrifice of our service members and their families,” commented Senator Moore. “Armed Forces Day reaffirms our deep appreciation to those who serve, and celebrates their contributions to promote freedom on the home-front and abroad. Special thanks to members of the surrounding communities for their ongoing support of this annual event.”
“I am always honored to have the opportunity to join with our friends and neighbors in Central Massachusetts to recognize our active and retired military personnel and their service to our country,” said Representative Muradian. “This event was a great opportunity to not only gather together, but show our thanks to the members of our United States Military.”
Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 by then Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson, to replace separate Army, Navy, and Air Force days and unify all branches of the military under the Department of Defense. This event was held to honor all those who are currently serving and who have served their country in times of peace and war.