By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter
Northborough – Northborough veterans were showered with appreciation at the eighth annual Veteran’s Day Luncheon Nov. 3 at the Northborough Senior Center. Senior Center Director Kelly Burke welcomed attendees who enjoyed a program filled with patriotic music and heartfelt presentations. The sun shone bright on the occasion and attendance was high for this mid-day event.
Town Administrator John Coderre led the lineup of speakers with an emotional account of his 96-year-old grandfather’s service, a World War II veteran who recently shared his experiences in the Battle of the Bulge and his involvement in liberating several concentration camps with his 14-year-old great granddaughter. His service is still a very big part of who he is today. Coderre urged the veterans to share their stories with each other and with their families.
Justin Sousa, a veteran who was recently names veterans’ agent to the area, thanked his fellow veterans for their contributions. His remarks touched on the themes of service, sacrifice and support of those who have served. He encouraged the audience to mirror the veterans’ service by volunteering in the community, giving blood and donating food.
The Reverend Chad McCabe from the Church of the Nativity gave the invocation and Terry Underwood spoke on behalf of the Northborough Veterans.
The Color Guard was provided by members of the Vincent F. Picard American Legion Post 234. A POW/MIA Remembrance was given by Tracy A. Linch, Sargent Major USMC (Ret.) and the Marine Corps JROTC cadets from Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School (AVRTHS).
The event was capped off with a medley from the AVRTHS Choir under the direction of Katherine Waters and Military Anthems from the five military branches.
Burke thanked the Friends of the Northborough Senior Center, Inc., Church of the Nativity, Ed and Mary Ellen Bombard, Al Graefing, Senior Center volunteers, Members of Post 234, the DIVAS from the Northborough Church of the Nativity, and employees from Iron Mountain and NCAT for their support.