By Ed Karvoski Jr., Contributing Writer
Hudson – Memorial Day was observed May 29 in downtown Hudson with a parade led by the AMVETS Post 208 Color Guard followed by representatives from the town’s veterans’ organizations and Hudson-Concord Elks Lodge 959. Also marching were state and town officials with Scout troops. Music was provided by the Hudson High School (HHS) Marching Band under the direction of Jason Caron.
The parade first stopped at Cox Square to lay a wreath at the Gold Star Monument. An inscription on the monument’s plaque reads: “Hudson dedicates this tablet in memory of those heroes of all wars who made the supreme sacrifice and whose bodies have not been returned. Lest we forget.”
Next, a ceremony with wreath layings took place at Liberty Park emceed by Joe Jacobs, commander of American Legion Post 100 and AMVETS Post 208. An invocation was offered by
Robert Sierra, pastor of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Hudson. Speakers included state Rep. Kate Hogan, D-Stow, Selectmen Chair John Parent and Veterans Services Officer Brian Stearns.
John McHugh of Boy Scout Troop 77 read a proclamation from Gov. Charlie Baker. Desert Storm veteran Master Sgt. Tom McCoy of Hudson delivered the keynote speech. A benediction was shared by Vinny Giombetti, chaplain of Disabled American Veterans Chapter 82. The ceremony concluded with “God Bless America” sung by HHS sophomore Maya Levine, and “The Star-Spangled Banner” played by the HHS Marching Band.
