File photo/submitted
Westborough – The town of Westborough’s Veterans’ Advisory Board has announced that George A. Perry III is the recipient of the Veteran of the Year Award, created to honor Westborough veterans who make extraordinary contributions to the town and foster the wellbeing of their ex-military neighbors.
A plaque, donated by Crown Trophy of Northborough, will be presented to the Perry family Tuesday, Feb. 7, at the Westborough Town Hall at 5 p.m.
Born in Worcester, Perry was the son of the late George and Priscilla (Balnis) Perry. Educated in Westborough schools, he entered the U.S. Army at the age of 18. He served in the Army for eight years with active duty from January 1966 to December 1968. During that time he was stationed in Vietnam and received the Vietnam Campaign Ribbon, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with 60 device, National Defense Service Medal and two Overseas Bars.
Following his service with the U. S. Army, he enlisted with the U.S. Air Force where he served for 38 years, retiring as Chief Senior Master Sergeant. Perry was recognized with the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster and Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon. He was a graduate of the ANG NCO Academy and USAF senior NCO Academy
Always active in the community, Perry served as the veteran’s agent in Westborough for many years and initiated the move to create a district, adding the towns of Shrewsbury, Grafton and Northborough.
He was a member and past commander of the VFW Post 9013, a member of the American Legion and the Disabled American Veterans. As a leader within the Westborough Veterans Advisory Board and the Trustees of the Soldiers Memorials, he advocated for veterans and veterans issues as well as supervising Westborough’s Memorial Day and Veterans Day programs.
Perry passed away on April 13, 2014.
