By Bonnie Adams, Managing Editor
Northborough – As his family and friends looked on, Warren E. DeVault was honored March 19 for his 70 years of membership in the American Legion.
DeVault was presented certificates from the Vincent F. Picard Post 234 of the American Legion in Northborough as well as the national office in a ceremony held at the Coleman House, where he now resides.
DeVault was only 20 years old when he was a member of the U.S. Navy serving on the U.S.S. Liddle that was hit by a Japanese kamikaze attack during the Battle of Ormoc Bay in the Philippines on Dec. 6, 1944. Twenty five sailors died in that attack and 32, including DeVault, were injured. He received the Purple Heart, which is awarded to those wounded or killed while serving.
During the ceremony, Roger Langevin, Post 234’s commander, praised DeVault for his bravery.
“We are honored to today to recognize this great American who risked his life to help keep us safe during World War II,” he said. “It is also a joyful celebration, to honor his 70 years with the American Legion. “
Adam Costello, director of the Central Massachusetts Veterans’ Services District, also offered his congratulations to DeVault.
“I have nothing but admiration for what you and your generation went through,” he said. “The battles you had to fight…it’s overwhelming to think about all of that.”
Langevin noted that veterans and their family members are invited to join the American Legion. For more information on Post 234, visit http://www.americanlegionpost234.com and on Facebook.
Photos/Bonnie Adams
