Tuesday, June 17, 2025
Flag Day in the District
On Saturday, June 14th, I had the honor of attending several Flag Day events throughout our district — each one a heartfelt tribute to our nation’s enduring symbol of freedom and unity.
Highlights from the day included:
Rowley U.S. Flag Retirement Ceremony & Officer Retirement Recognition
A solemn gathering at the Rowley Fire Station with the Veterans Committee, Fire Department, Police Department, and town scouts to respectfully retire worn American flags. I also had the distinct honor of supporting the Rowley Police Department in the formal retirement of Officer Stephen Levesque, badge #120, recognizing his years of dedicated service to the community.
Ipswich-Rowley Rotary Club Flag Day Celebration
A beautiful display of 100 American flags along the South Green, accompanied by thoughtful remarks and a stirring performance by a bagpiper.
Gloucester Elks Flag Day Ceremony
A moving tribute that also recognized graduating students from Gloucester and Rockport with scholarships for their academic achievement and community involvement.
Derek Hines Flag Day 5K in Newburyport
A community 5K race held in honor of 1LT Derek S. Hines, a 2003 graduate of West Point who gave his life on September 1, 2005, during combat operations in Baylough, Afghanistan. Even after being fatally wounded, Derek continued to return fire — an extraordinary act of valor. His legacy lives on through this annual event and the many who continue to run in his memory.
North Reading Republican Town Committee Flag Day Essay Contest
The 13th annual Essay Scholarship Award ceremony at the North Reading Common War Memorial. This year’s recipient of the $1,000 essay scholarship is North Reading High School graduate Addison Kathleen Marie Stetson.
Each of these events reflects the spirit of service, unity, and patriotism that defines our Commonwealth. My deepest thanks to all the organizers, volunteers, and community members who made these tributes possible.
