Thursday, August 28, 2014

Honoring Local Heroes

On Thursday, August 21st, I had the honor to attend and participate in the Legion d’Honneur Medal (Legion of Honor Medal) ceremony for U.S. Army veterans Michael Linquata and Frank Mondello, both from Gloucester, Massachusetts. The medals were presented to both men for their courageous actions in fighting to liberate the French people from Germany during World War II.

Presenting Mike and Frank with the medal, which is France’s highest decoration for military or civilian service, was Consul General de France at Boston, Fabien Fieschi. During the ceremony, I was able to present official Massachusetts State Senate Citations recognizing them for their service in the U.S. Army and their bravery overseas fighting against tyranny.

Also in attendance were several officials, including Congressman John Tierney, Kate Machet from U.S. Senator Ed Markey’s office, Representative Ann-Margaret Ferrante, Mayor Carolyn Kirk, Veterans’ Agent Adam Curcuru, City Council President Paul McGeary, Vice-President Sefatia Romeo-Theken, and others, and several prominent military figures including U.S. Army Veteran George Belezos, who is also a recipient of the Legion d’Honneur Medal, Joanne Patton, the daughter-in-law of General George S. Patton, members of the AMVETS organization, and members of the Disabled American Veterans organization.

The medal ceremony was held at the Gloucester World War II Memorial located at Kent Circle in Gloucester. Posted below are several photos I was able to capture during the event.