State House ceremony honors veterans past and present
POWs, MIAs are also recognized
Officials paid tribute to Massachusetts veterans from the American Revolution to the war on terrorism during a somber Veterans Day ceremony at the State House yesterday.
"Veterans, you come with memories, scars, and tears," said Richard Earley of the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services, who served as master of ceremonies for the hourlong tribute. "You are everything to us. Today is your day."
As veterans, active-duty members of the Armed Services, and family members of those killed in action looked on, Lieutenant Governor Timothy P. Murray linked their service and sacrifice to a tradition established by Colonial militiamen at the battles of Lexington and Concord.
Captain John Parker - who commanded the militia at the Battle of Lexington in 1775, the first armed conflict of the Revolutionary War - did not "lust for war," famously ordering his troops to "not fire unless fired upon," Murray said.
"Captain John Parker and his band of soldiers stood to block the British advance," Murray said. "They stood for freedom's sake and were cut down."
Likewise, soldiers from Massachusetts and across the country do not hesitate to defend America's ideals, he said.
"Today our country's soldiers stand their ground, and when there is no other option, they fight with the bravery of people who will not give up their God-given right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness," Murray said. "We owe more to them than we could ever repay."
The ceremony featured candle lighting for POWs and MIAs by Timothy B. Sullivan, a retired US Navy commander and former POW, and Maureen Dunn, a regional coordinator for the National League of POW/MIA Families. An empty place setting at a table in front of the audience was meant to represent those servicemen and servicewomen.
"We are duty bound to remember those who have not returned," Earley said.
Twenty-six Gold Star Families, those who have lost a relative in war, then received bouquets of roses from members of the military.
"To all those who have lost a family member, we promise to remember you, to respect you, and to honor your loss," Earley said.
John C. Drake can be reached at jdrake@globe.com. 