The annual ceremony included many references from dignitaries to a fixture at the annual event, John E. “Jack” McQuaid who passed away in December, a retired army corporal that served in WW II, and to a 92-year-old World War II Army Air Force veteran who was a prisoner of war.
US Marine Corp Captain Justin Ristow left, and Congresmman James McGovern, D-Worcester WARE — With a redrawn congressional district that now includes Ware, U.S. Rep. James McGovern, D-Worcester, spoke during the town’s well-attended Memorial Day observance on Monday.
The annual ceremony included many references from dignitaries to a fixture at the annual event, John E. “Jack” McQuaid, who passed away in December, a retired army corporal who served in WW II, and to a 92-year-old World War II Army Air Force veteran who was a prisoner of war.
The congressman touched on themes that included the government’s responsibility to ensure all returning injured veterans receive proper medical care.
McGovern also said: “It is a privilege to be with you today – a community that never forgets ... I want to salute the men and women on active duty [and those who] now bear the heartache and sadness who have lost a loved one.”
State Sen. Stephen M. Brewer, D-Barre, recognized Everett S. Allen, 92, who served in World War II.
Allen was shot down on June 29, 1944. He was captured by German forces in August, and shipped to Stalag Luft IV prison camp. The facility at the time was on German territory, but became Polish national land following the war. Allen, who resides in West Brookfield, was liberated by Russian soldiers in May 1945.
The Ware parade marshal on Monday was Richard Zebrowski, a retired major in the U.S. Army.
U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Justin Ristow, currently stationed at Westover Air Reserve Base, was featured speaker.
“For those currently deployed, know that you remain in our thoughts and in our prayers,” he said.
McQuaid served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946 during World War II. A corporal, he was among the first to land on Normandy in France during the dangerous D-Day operation.
“I miss him every time I come into this town. Jack McQuaid was my hero and I will forever miss him,” Brewer said. “D-Day was the most important battle in the history of the USA.”
Master of ceremonies Joseph E. Pellissier said: "Next time you look at a soldier's face ... smile your best smile."