DefenDers A T U R L E Y P U B L I C A T I O N of free€¦ · summer 2014 DefenDers of freeDom R...

DefenDersoffreeDom

P I O N E E R V A L L E Y

A T U R L E Y P U B L I C A T I O N

Summer 2014

Profiles ofLocal Veterans

Holyokesoldiers’ Home

Veterans organizations

� DefenDersoffreeDom summer 2014

summer 2014DefenDersoffreeDom�

Cowls Building SupplyDream It, Plan It, Build It

Proud Supporters of Our Troops & Local Veterans

Supporters of Wounded Warrior Project Supporters of Homes for Our Troops

Military Employee Supporter Military Discounts

www.cowls.com 125 Sunderland Road(413) 549-0001 North Amherst, MA 01059

Proud Supporters of Our Troops & Local VeteransSupporters of Wounded Warrior Project

Supporters of Homes for Our TroopsMilitary Employee Supporter

Military Discounts


We extend a heartfelt THANK YOU

to all who so bravely sacriced for the many freedoms we enjoy in this

country; all the service men and women who have selessly served,

and those still serving.

Main Street - Monson, Massachusetts

This publication was made possible by the generosity of our advertisers. Please be sure to patronize their businesses.We welcome story ideas of veterans throughout our region. Please contact Beth Baker at [email protected] or 413-283-8393.

Published by

AssociAte Publisher: beth baker

editor:Rich J. Wirth

Art director:deanna sloat

Production coordinAtor:stephanie T. hadley

contributing Writers:Rich J. Wirth, dennis P.

hohenberger, emily Thurlow, sarah Platanitis & Kristin Will

800-824-6548 www.turley.com

24 Water street, Palmer, Massachusetts 01069

5 HeroontheHomefront

10 Spotlight:VirginiaMidyette

18 NavyveteranRobertP.Cahillane

22 HolyokeSoldiers’Home

26 ValorActIISigned

30 BlueStarMuseumProgram

31 PledgetoHireVeterans

32 Brewerchampionsfunding

36 VeteransOrganizations

Contents


Robert d. “bob” sweeney left for Vietnam on Jan. 12, 1969—the same day the New york Jets won the super bowl in Miami. drafted the previous August at age 20,

the springfield native boarded a plane en route to the iron Triangle—a stronghold of Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army activity roughly 25 miles north of saigon—with the same non-defeatist attitude that “broadway” Joe Namath and the underdog Jets displayed on the gridiron. “i’ve been dealt these cards, so now i’ve got to play them,” recalls sweeney, a longtime deputy director for the city’s department of Veterans’ services and a former manager of the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam.

A 1966 graduate of springfield Technical high school, sweeney served as a gun squad leader with the 2nd battalion, 28th infantry “black lions” of the 1st infantry division. Nicknamed “The big Red One” after its shoulder patch, it is the oldest division in the u.s. Army and has been in continuous service since its inception in 1917; the division fought in the Vietnam War from 1965 to 1970.

stationed at a base camp in lai Khe, sweeney lived a harrowing existence for one year. in early 1969, the 1st division was given the task of clearing out enemy base

HeroFor Vietnam veteranRobert D. Sweeney,

advocacy comes easy

By Rich J. WirthTurley Publications Correspondent

on the Homefront


4091

4

Selfless Service Past & Present

We honor those who have served our country in the past and continue to serve their communities today. Thank you for

your many years of se ess service

Joint Commission accredited 413.596.3111 | LCCA.COM

Dennis Lopata, Executive Director

Life Care Center of Wilbraham

“As long as there are Veterans,the Benevolent and Protective Order

of Elks will never forget them”

Springfi eld Lodge of Elks #61440 Tiffany Street, Springfi eld

413-734-2213

camps along highway 13 from saigon north to the Cambodian border; the dirt road was the main artery leading from the country’s capital north to the border. The infantrymen conducted reconnaissance-in-force and ambush operations. “Our job was to search and destroy,” sweeney says. “We were constantly ambushing trails.” every two weeks or so, platoon-size units would chopper out to a new location somewhere in the jungle, set up a secure perimeter at a fire support base and perform daily s&d missions as well as nightly ambushes to rout out the Viet

Cong and NVA regulars. A typical platoon might have upwards of 44 soldiers, but sweeney’s squad often operated with as little as 18 men, a direct result of the troop drawdown that President Nixon initiated in 1969. “i spent most of my time in less than company size,” he says. “Nothing in Vietnam operated at full strength.”

sweeney was awarded the Purple heart after he and a fellow soldier were wounded in a grenade blast. The pair was attempting to liberate a comrade who was shot near the base of a VC camp when the grenade went off. “We both took


Thanks to Attorney Gale D. Candaras for supporting our Training in Advanced Manufacturing through the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County, Inc. and Home For Our Troops.

Candidate for Hampden County Register of Probate

Raymond MarquisVeteran USN

Thomas DoranVeteran USMC

shrapnel,” sweeney recalls. “We got the guy out, but he was already dead.” sweeney also received the Army Commendation Medal, which is presented to members of the Armed Forces who distinguish themselves by heroism or meritorious achievement, and the Air Medal for actively participating in more than 25 aerial missions over hostile territory in support of counterinsurgency operations. he is most proud, however, of his Combat infantryman’s badge, which is awarded to soldiers with a military occupational specialty (MOs)—infantry or special

Forces—who participated in active ground combat.

honorably discharged in 1970, sweeney found gainful employment two years later through the federal Comprehensive employment and Training Act (CeTA), sparking a decades-long commitment to advocacy and community service. There were two job openings available at the time: trash collector and claims investigator for springfield’s department of Veterans’ services. sweeney chose the latter. “i found out i liked working with people,” he says. in 1972, the department’s monthly

Sweeney was highly decorated, having earned a Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal, the Air Medal and the Combat Infantryman’s Badge.


caseload hovered around 400, which included World War ii veterans and the widows of World War i vets, he said. The caseload has climbed steadily in recent years, rising from 65 cases in 1995 to 309 cases in 2012. “Part of that is the aging of Vietnam veterans,” says sweeney, a member of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 111. An estimated 2.7 million men and women served in Vietnam and most are at or nearing retirement age.

After the CeTA jobs program ended, sweeney took the civil service test for claims investigator and rejoined the veterans’ services

department in 1977. All told, he spent 33 years there, including 10 as deputy director. When asked about the most rewarding aspect of that long tenure, he answers matter-of-factly: “seeing people succeed.”

Around the same time, sweeney was introduced to the springfield lodge of elks #61 through its slate of youth programming; he coached youth baseball and soccer teams with the elks for 10 years. Today, he is co-chairman of the elks Veterans Committee and is the Massachusetts elks Association liaison to the holyoke soldiers’ home. he has been a member

of the springfield Veterans Activities Committee since 1987—serving as its president from 1991-1993—and was chairman of the springfield Veterans Council from 1992-2006. When the Mayor’s Office of Community Affairs (MoCA) was discontinued in the late 1980s due to fiscal constraints, the springfield Veterans Activities Committee, in conjunction with elks lodge #61, stepped in and took control of the city’s Veterans day parade. “They’ve supported the parade since 1987,” sweeney says. he was chosen as parade marshal in 1995.

in 2007, sweeney was named

Sweeney, far left, served as a gun squad leader with the 2nd Battalion, 28th Infantry “Black Lions” of the 1st Infantry Division.

The view from the gunner’s well of a Huey assault

helicopter. Note the mounted M-60 machine gun.


Proud to know oursons, brothers, fathers, daughters,sisters, mothers, employees and

customers who have servedour country from WWII through

Operation Enduring Freedomin Afghanistan!

143 West St., Ware413-967-3327

1500 North Main St. Palmer413-283-8941

45 North Main St. Belchertown413-323-7229

AUTO • HOME • BUSINESS

1-800-521-5787www.moultoninsurance.com

Active duty credit for inexperienced operators while away and no rate change for out-of-state use. Call for details.

manager of the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam. Chosen from a field of more than 80 candidates, he was involved from the time former state sen. linda J. Melconian first got funding for a site study for the $7.2 million cemetery, and he was on the committee for the groundbreaking and dedication. in fact, it was sweeney and others that convinced Melconian that the cemetery, which opened in 2001, should be located in Agawam—on 61 acres donated by potato farmer edward squazza—not at Westover as was originally proposed.

sweeney said his years in the city’s veterans’ services department, advocating for indigent veterans suffering from drug and alcohol dependency or struggling with financial insecurity, prepared him for his new role as cemetery manager. “All i’m doing is helping a vet—or their family—in another time of need,” he says. Financed by the federal government but maintained by the state, the Agawam cemetery will accommodate about 50,000 burials. Only Massachusetts veterans—or veterans who have resided in Massachusetts at some point since their discharge from

the service—and their spouses can be buried here and in a second state-run cemetery in Winchendon. “Whether you’re a private or a general, you’re treated with the same honor and dignity,” sweeney says.

A husband, father and grandfather, sweeney was named springfield’s “Veteran of the year” in 2007, an honor bestowed by the springfield Veterans Activities Committee and then mayor Charles V. Ryan. “it was nice—it was very nice—knowing the quality of the people that had received [the honor] before me,” sweeney says. “it’s not an award that’s given out lightly.”

10 DefenDersoffreeDom summer 2014

Virginia Midyette may have taken off her uniform from the service, but she hasn’t shed

service from her uniform. A native of springfield, she enlisted in the military during World War ii. Affectionately nicknamed “Ginny” by friends and family, she received her training from the united states Naval Reserve Midshipmen’s school at smith College in Northampton. There she and over

100 others graduated from the first class of officers from the junior officers of the Women’s Reserve of the u.s. Naval Reserve.

during her 3 ½ years of service during wartime, Midyette served as a second lieutenant in the coding and issuing offices, including time in New york and New Jersey. Although WWii is considered to be the most extensive and destructive war of all time with over 30 countries involved,

culminating in the death of millions upon millions for six years until the defeat and subsequent surrender of Japan and Nazi Germany in 1945, Midyette said, humbly, that she was just doing her duty. “it was wartime and everyone did something,” she said. “i was with a good group of people, and we didn’t really experience any hardships. it was good being a part of a big effort, part of a system effort to win the war.”

serving her country, serving her community…

By Emily ThurlowStaff Writer

Turley Publications submitted photos

A second lieutenant in the U.S. Navy, Springfield native Virginia “Ginny” Midyette worked in the coding and issuing office during World War II.

Spotlight on Virginia Midyette

summer 2014DefenDersoffreeDom11

Thank You for Serving

LIFTS • RAMPS • HAND CONTROLS • VAN CONVERSIONS • SALES & SERVICE • SIDE & REAR ENTRY

18 Years in BusinessA+ Rating

Call Richard Spencer - Sales at 1-800-955-9949 • 1-413-245-9949Rte. 20, P.O. Box 38 • Brimfi eld, MA 01010 • http:www.motionautomotive.com

Whether you need an Accessible Van for a day, week, month or longerAccessible Van Rentals, Leasing & Sales

Wheelchairsin MOTION

The only name you need to knowbecause you’ve got places to go.

All Phases of Modifi cationfrom Minor to Extensive

All Modifi cation: Mini Vans, Pickups, Cars, Anything with Wheels

Midyette on leave in

Newport, R.I.

shortly after meeting her now late husband, Allen, the couple moved to Monson, where Midyette still resides. And although she hung up her uniform of service to her country, the 93-year-young Midyette has continued to serve her community in a number of capacities, and for that Midyette was recipient of the honor of “Citizen of the year” by the Monson Rotary Club last year. “i don’t really feel like i deserved it…i haven’t really done that much,” she said of receiving the honor. but friends and colleagues beg to differ. “you cannot find a candidate who has volunteered more of her time and talents for the town of Monson than has Ginny,” said

1� DefenDersoffreeDom summer 2014

1029 Park StreetPalmer, MA 01069

[email protected]

HOURS:Tues, Wed

& Fri 10-6:30Thurs 10-7:30

Sat 9-5

HUNTINGSPORTING

GOODSFISHING

WE BUY,SELL &CONSIGNGUNS

Mario Torchia

Thank You For Your Service To Our Country! “Th ank you to the veteran men and women who have served a cause greater than their own - our country.”

Todd M. Smola

State Representative1st Hampden District

Rep. [email protected]

State House, Room 156, Boston, MA 02133617.722.2240

Th e Commonwealth of MassachusettsHOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Candace Fay erickson, co-director of the Monson Open Pantry.

For over eight years, Midyette has been an active docent interacting with hundreds of visitors at the monthly open house held at the Keep homestead Museum. “before every open house we hold, Ginny roams the museum grounds for flowering plants and then designs arrangements for our tables,” said Carol strum, a member of the Keep’s board of directors. in addition to that service, she is also part of the Keep’s “Tuesday Crew,” a group that meets every Tuesday morning to work on the museum’s collections, where she has cleaned and re-carded thousands of buttons as well as cleaned multiple pieces of silver and inventoried collections of books, clothing and household items in the attic. Midyette was also elected to the Keep homestead

Midyette was named “Citizen of the Year” by the Monson Rotary Club in 2013.

Turle

y Pub

licat

ions

staff

pho

to b

y Em

ily T

hurlo

w

summer 2014DefenDersoffreeDom1�

Museum board of directors in 2005 and served for five years. she is a participating member of the Friends of Keep homestead Museum and has worked in several capacities there; presently, she is the secretary.

One area of her volunteering efforts that she is well known for is at the Monson Free library. From 1989 to 1999 she served as vice president on the board of directors and led the movement to build the addition that was dedicated in 1990. “since i was able to read, i just loved the library. it’s one of my favorite places to be,” said Midyette. At the library, she has done a number of story hours, puppet shows

and created a bulletin board for the children’s room. she has also made the food for bake sales and offered up her own paintings for the raffles. since its inception in 1972, she’s been active with the Friends of the Monson Free library and serves as the corporator of the library.

Prior to that, she served as an art teacher for an elementary school in hampden where she taught for over 25 years. she also was a volunteer art teacher for 19 years at the Children’s study home in springfield. in her capacity as an artist, the Monson Arts Council (MAC) gave Midyette a platform to shine; she has submitted

watercolors for most of their art shows and has volunteered to act as a docent during the multi-weekend run of each show. “Ginny is probably one of my most favorite people out there…she’s elegant, smart, savvy…she’s the person i want to be as i get older,” said Maureen solomon, longtime arts committee show member. MAC also benefited from her painting skills as she created the designs for literally dozens of theatre posters used for advertising by the group. “Monson is very fortunate to have Ginny Midyette as a citizen who has given back so much to her town,” said erickson.

KawasakiMotorcycles • ATV • Mules

www.fl amingomotorsports.com2 Wilbraham St., Palmer, MA 01069 ❙ 413-284-1673

HOURS:M-F 9-6Sat 9-3

can-amATVs

Thank you to all past, present and future veterans!

2387 Boston Road • Wilbraham, MA 01095

413-596-0006

Do you know? You may be eligible for Veterans Benefits and a special military discount for assisted living

Call 413-596-0006 today to learn more!

WE GIVE OUR VETS AHeroes’ Welcome

W W W. B E N C H M A R K S E N I O R L I V I N G . C O M

A Benchmark Senior Living Community

BENCHMARK SENIOR LIVINGsalutes OURveterans EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR

At Orchard Valley at Wilbraham, veterans hold a specialplace in our hearts. We are proud to go one step furtherto honor those who have stepped forward for us.


Robert P. Cahillane, who served in the u.s. Navy from 1957-1961, continues to

serve the nation and his community of Northampton. As a blue and Gold Officer with the u.s. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., Cahillane interviews local candidates for the prestigious academy, which has trained generations of naval officers. he regularly visits area high schools where he provides information on the academy to young men and women. The Cahillane name is synonymous with the family’s automobile business,

Navy veteran Robert P. Cahillane

Spurring localyouth to service

By Dennis P. HohenbergerTurley Publications Correspondent

Def

ende

rs o

f Fre

edom

pho

to b

y Den

nis P

. Hoh

enbe

rger


Make Your Move Todaynewly renovated homes

ENJOY AMENITIES• Spacious 3, 4 & 5

Bedroom Homes

• Professional On-Site Property Management

• Full-Service Maintenance Team

• Community Playgrounds

• On-Site Dog Park

SAVE MONEY!• Utilities Included-

Gas, Water, Heat, Sewer, Trash and Basic Electricity

• Free Lawn Maintenance

• Free Pest Control

CALL TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION:

413.331.320510 Outer Drive

Chicopee, MA 01022

www.welcomeamcc.com

ENJOY AMENITIES SAVE MONEY! CALL TODAY FOR MORE FOR MORE FOR MORE

ALL INCLUSIVE MONTHLY RENTAL RATES

a respected Northampton institution. besides his work with the Naval

Academy, he supports the National Guard and Reserves’ employment efforts and sits on the board of directors of the Pioneer Valley American Automobile Club. he is a past president of the hampshire County deputy sheriff ’s Association and the Massachusetts Veterans’ service Officers Association. Not one for retirement, Cahillane is part-owner of Kerryman Partnership, a property management company.

he served as Northampton’s veterans’ services director from 1991-2013. he ensured veterans received their rightful benefits,

including giving guidance on financial aid available to service members. Cahillane chaired several veterans’ memorial commissions, including one for the Veterans’ Memorial in front of Memorial hall in Northampton, which lists the names of service members who gave the ultimate sacrifice in World War ii, Korea and Vietnam. On a steep slope on Mount Tom stands a memorial for the 25 victims of a b-17 Flying Fortress that crashed on July 6, 1946. Within sight of Westover Field in Chicopee, the mammoth boeing airplane struck the side of the mountain, killing all aboard, including 24 service members

and a Red Cross worker who were returning home from overseas. sprinkled around the memorial are small pieces of the wreckage, scraps of twisted or charred metal. Visitors to the site hike up a narrow paved access road. Memorial services for the victims are held annually and include remembrances by the victims’ loved ones. Another memorial, located in Cahillane’s hometown, honors victims of a training flight out of Westover that crashed at Adams Farm on Florence Road.

Cahillane said his duty to veterans began when he was sworn in as a young Navy recruit. “i’m just one of millions of veterans who have served,”


he said. he described his four years in the service as more “Mchale’s Navy”—a pleasant period in his life. “i enjoyed myself too much.” he served two years in the military police in hawaii and was then transferred to the Combat information Center on the storied aircraft carrier USS

Lexington. Cahillane completed his tour at China lake, Calif., a then secret base. “i jokingly say i crowded 20 years into four years,” he said. he recalled a visit to the Navy’s War College in Newport, R.i., where a combat veteran was asked what it was like being shot at. “The guy said, ‘Anytime there’s somebody shooting at you, i considered it high intensity.’” A Vietnam War veteran who saw extensive combat told Cahillane, “he didn’t miss anything,” a humbled response many combat survivors have uttered over the centuries. “That’s basically the horrors of war,” he said. “A lot of veterans—guys who went through it and did it—will not talk about their experiences.”

Cahillane said most veterans would not want any war visited on current or future generations. years ago, he visited the then soviet union. A former Cold War veteran, he was left with the impression soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev was unwilling to take his nation and the world down a path to nuclear annihilation, especially during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. The Americans claimed Khrushchev “blinked”

first and capitulated. instead, said Cahillane, the former soviet leader knew the horrors of war, a nearly endless, bloody struggle to defeat and push back the Nazis in WWii, a war that claimed the lives of millions of Russian soldiers and citizens. instead, “calmer heads prevailed” during the tense situation in October 1962. Only months out of the Navy, Cahillane said he would likely have been reactivated if the two super powers had gone to war.

When he meets with area high schools students interested in the Naval Academy, Cahillane said he looks for young persons committed to serving their country—not

someone just looking for a free college education. After completing training at the academy, newly sworn-in officers are obligated to serve five years in the Navy or Marine Corps. On his visits, Cahillane wears a sharp navy blue blazer with a Naval Academy patch sewn on the breast pocket. “There are a lot of nice young men and women out there who want to serve their country, and they’re motivated to do so,” he said. “you meet some of the nicest young men and women that are out there. They’re focused, they know where they’re going, and they know what they want to do and accomplish.”

This year alone, Cahillane interviewed three candidates for next year’s academy class. besides direct recruitment, members of Congress can nominate candidates for the nation’s military academies. The president and vice president are afforded a wider berth and are given unlimited appointments; any son or daughter of a veteran may apply for a presidential appointment. Much like boot camp, the academy is about “knocking down and building back up again” the country’s future military leaders, Cahillane said.

Two flags fly over his spacious Northampton home, the American flag and the Navy flag.

Cahillane’s commitment is everlasting.

“There’s a lot of nice young men and women

out there who want to serve their country, and they’re motivatedto do so”


Wilbraham American Legion Post 286 Commander Glenn Trevallion, a combat veteran of the Vietnam War, presents the Boy’s State Award to James Webber of Minnechaug Regional High School in Wilbraham at their Evening of Recognition May 21 at the high school. Trevallion is also commander of the Hampden VFW Post.

Vietnam veteran honors the next generation…

Turle

y Pub

licat

ions

pho

to b

y Dav

id M

iles

No application fee for veterans or active military

Dedicated Veterans Services Office to assist you throughout your time with us

Convenient part-time, online and full-time course options

Online degree completion programs in Criminal Justice, Business, Sociology, History,

Psychology, and Liberal Studies

No out-of state-tuition with our online degree and continuing education programs

31 Undergraduate majors including:Criminal justiceBusiness ManagementMovement SciencePsychologyEducation

8 Graduate degrees including:Criminal JusticeSocial WorkEducationPublic AdministrationAccountancy

TAKE YOUR NEXT STEP WITH US

E-mail questions to [email protected]

or go to westfield.ma.edu/veterans for more information. Call us at (413) 572-8370


Small or large, we can accommodate your gathering. You can reserve the banquet room, patio or our huge backyard with horseshoe pits and barbecue area! The perfect spot for your special event day!

“Our Chef Dianne comes to us from the Connecticut Culinary Institute and brings a gourmet fl air to our menu”

Stop In To Check Out Our Friday Night SpecialsBELCHERTOWN 41 Pelham Road, Belchertown

413-323-9997

Book your next event with us...REUNIONS ■ WEDDINGS ■ JACK & JILL PARTIES ■ SHOWERS ■ AND MORE

Local veteran bestowed French Legion of Honor

As a career National Guard, Navy and Air Force veteran, Warren McAvoy, 89, isn’t a man of many words. but

just over a year ago, McAvoy began to speak to his son-in-law, Robert Roofe, of Clinton, veteran to veteran about his experiences overseas. like many veterans, McAvoy had remained mum since he was honorably discharged from the u.s. Air Force in 1964. As he

Freedom,friendshipand our future

By Kristin WillStaff Writer

Turley Publications photo by Kristin Will

French Consul General Fabien Fieschi pins the French Legion of Honor on South Hadley U.S. Air Force veteran Warren McAvoy.


Nick Boldyga, RepresentativeProudly serving Agawam, Granville and Southwick

T hank you for your serviceDistrict Offi ce:Cooper’s Commons159 Main Street Suite M, Agawam, MA 01001413-455-3007 • www.NickBoldyga.com

continued to share over the course of that year, McAvoy’s family listened intently to every word. One in particular suits him well—hero.

in september 2013, McAvoy was presented with the French legion of honor Award and appointed a “Chevalier” by French Consul General Fabien Fieschi for his assistance in the liberation of France during World War ii. Napoleon bonaparte created the legion of honor in 1802 to acknowledge “services rendered to France by persons of exceptional merit.”

The ceremony took place at south hadley’s selectboard meeting room in town hall. Four generations of the McAvoy family filled the room in addition to McAvoy’s friends and fellow veterans from the area. “it’s been an honor

Turley Publications photo by Kristin Will

Fellow veteran Lloyd Askew congratulates Warren McAvoy on receiving the French Legion of Honor.

770 Converse Street, Longmeadow, MA 413-567-6211

�0 DefenDersoffreeDom summer 2014

for us to have you here today,” said Fieschi, who told McAvoy that because of his commitment, europeans are today able to enjoy democracy and freedom. his sacrifices were not made in vain. “We are grateful to you for your heroic actions,” Fieschi added. “your contribution is an exemplary model to all generations. Thank you for your courage and dedication.” France, said Fieschi, is “eternally grateful.”

McAvoy beamed as Fieschi pinned the legion of honor to his suit jacket. McAvoy’s children, seated beside him, teared up with pride. “i’m overwhelmed,” said the humble McAvoy, adding he was excited “of

course.” When he learned of the news last summer, “i flipped out,” he said. McAvoy received a letter, which reads in part, “Mr. McAvoy, by decree of President hollande, has been appointed a ‘Chevalier’ of the legion of honor. The award testifies to President hollande’s high esteem for Warren’s merits and accomplishments. in particular, it is a sign of France’s gratitude and appreciation for his personal contributions to the united states’ decisive role in the liberation of France during World War ii…The French people will never forget Warren’s courage and devotion to the great cause of freedom.”

in september 1938, a young McAvoy, just 15, enlisted in the Maine National Guard, “looking for a place to be,” said Roofe. McAvoy was honorably discharged from the Guard in October 1941. he then enlisted in the Army Air Corps that same month. After the war, he was honorably discharged in October 1945. From there, McAvoy enlisted in the Naval Reserve in March 1947 and the Maine National Guard in October of that year. he was honorably discharged from both in October and May 1948, respectively. he “found his home and calling,” Roofe said, when McAvoy enlisted in the u.s. Air Force in October 1948; he became

Turley Publications courtesy photo

Four generations of the McAvoy family filled the South Hadley selectboard meeting room to watch Warren McAvoy, a career veteran, accept the French Legion of Honor.

summer 2014DefenDersoffreeDom�1

White Law Offices3 Converse Street, Suite 104

Palmer, MA 01069

Phone: 413-283-8341Fax: 413-289-1983

Email: [email protected]

Joseph R. WhiteAttorney At Law

Elizabeth L. White ChouinardAttorney At Law

Mediation Services

~ Hire A Vet! ~

WESTOVER AUTO

SALVAGE

LIKE US ON

147 BAY ROAD, BELCHERTOWN• Used Auto Parts....”If we don’t have it we’ll locate it through our nationwide network! • Bring us your waste oil, antifreeze, scrap steel

and old batteries FREE of Charge!Open: Mon. – Fri. 8 to 5, Sat. 8 to 1

413-323-4210 • 1-800-358-5100

RECYCLE CENTER“Salvage the Best – Recycle the Rest!”

A GREEN COMPANY

FIRE FIGHTINGEQUIPMENTFIRE FIGHTINGEQUIPMENT

Alan Fauteux (Owner)

Visit us at: www.firefightingequip.com

2146 Main Street, Three Rivers (across from Amvets)

Office (413) 283-8474

• Fire Extinguishers• Sales and Service

• Scuba Tanks Refilled• CO2 for Beer Systems

Thank you for your service to

our Country

WE ARE PROUDTO SUPPORT OUR TROOPSTh ank you for your Service!

a mechanic with the 9th Air Force hell hawks. McAvoy was charged with prepping airplanes for flight, repairing them when damaged and recovering parts from those that went down.

McAvoy was honorably discharged from the Air Force in 1964, when he retired at Westover Air Force base. by that time, the young teen who allegedly fudged his age on his enlistment application just looking for a place to be, had attainted the e-9 rank of chief master sergeant, the highest rank possible. he was awarded a bronze star. “he kept telling me, ‘i’m no hero,’” said Roofe. “i told him, ‘you don’t know the definition of a hero.’”

Roofe’s conversations with McAvoy continued, with McAvoy asking if Roofe, a Vietnamese linguist who served from 1968-1969, knew of particular locations listed in books about the Vietnam War. “That opened things up. he welcomed me home, which hadn’t happened before. Now he’s telling stories,” said Roofe. Jean Roofe, McAvoy’s daughter and Roofe’s wife, said, “it opened up a whole different area of knowing my father. it was probably cathartic. it was just amazing.”

The couple learned of Christian W. de Marcken, a representative of the WWii Veterans of No. France, who has obtained medals for local veterans. Roofe contacted him while he and Jean tracked down the proper military documents, completed mountains of paperwork and sent them to France. The process took one year, but it was well worth the wait to see the legion of honor presented to McAvoy. “i’m so proud of my dad,” said James McAvoy, who was visibly emotional. “he’s quite a guy. i didn’t know it was going to hit me like this.” McAvoy’s granddaughter, Jen Thomas, of holliston, echoed James’ sentiments. “it’s pretty amazing we could all be here. he’s probably a little humbled, but we’re really proud.”

John O’Connor, director of veterans’ services in south hadley, said, “The fact that after so many years the country of France remembers the extraordinary event and is not about to forget—i think that’s beautiful.”

�� DefenDersoffreeDom summer 2014

The soldiers’ home in holyoke has played an important role in the lives of Massachusetts veterans

since 1952. Nearly 300 veterans reside at the facility, but its reach has extended far into the surrounding military community. “We are working to be more relevant and have made some key developments over the past three years,” said Paul barabani, superintendent of the soldiers’ home. “We look upon ourselves as the hub of veteran activities in western Massachusetts. Whatever the need may be, come here and we’ll help fulfill it.”

A retired Army colonel who spent five years as administrative officer to the chief of staff at the department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center

in leeds, barabani has helped to bring new energy to the state-run facility that offers long-term care, outpatient services and residential care, pastoral care, social work and supportive care services, as well as a Veterans’ Assistance Center that assists with claims and benefits. “We’ve had a great reputation for being a long-term care facility but, unfortunately, many people refer to us as the ‘Old soldiers’ home.’ We are changing that [mindset], and we have helped and are able to support veterans of all eras,” he said.

One of the newest services introduced is a dental clinic run in partnership with the holyoke health Center. it provides care for inpatient residents of the home as well as outpatient care for eligible veterans

holyoke soldiers’ home caring for the past, presentand future

“We look upon ourselves as the

hub of veteran activities in western

Massachusetts. Whatever the need may be, come here

and we’ll helpfulfill it.”

– Paul Barabani,Superintendent,

Holyoke Soldiers’ Home

By Sarah PlatanitisTurley Publications Correspondent

LookingAheAD:

summer 2014DefenDersoffreeDom��

Holyoke Medical Centeris proud to support

the many men and women who have served our country.

413-534-2500575 Beech Street, Holyoke, MA 01040

www.holyokehealth.com

Your #1 Community Hospital of choice.

Tues.-Sun. 7am to 2pm

413-289-6359

Awarded on of the 8 outstanding Farm-to-Table Restaurants in

Western, MA

BREAKFAST & LUNCHHomemade Pies • Breads • Cookies • Cupcakes • Cakes • Soups

Burgundy Brook Cafe Thanks You For Your Service

Burgundy Brook Cafe

Now Accepting

www.burgundybrook.com

Rt. 181Palmer Rd.Palmer, MANext to Blue StarEquiculture

Left @ lightat Flamingo Motorsports

Boston Rd.

Rte. 181

Burgundy Brook Café

Four veterans who were in the Normandy invasion were honored at a 70th anniversary ceremony held in the canteen of the Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke. Left to right: Joseph Lenarcen, Navy veteran; Francis Schoenrock, Army veteran; Normand Drapeau, Navy veteran; and Harry Lonczak, Navy veteran.


Member FDIC | Member DIF

Th ank you for yourService to Our Country.

Thank you for yourservice to our country

Wilbraham-HampdenRotary Club

and their family members. “We’ d like to focus upon the younger, returning veterans whose dental needs may not be met by the department of Veterans Affairs. This provides an opportunity for dental care for their spouse, and now their dependent children can be seen in the newly-opened pediatric dentistry unit. it’s a tremendous benefit that families can’t get from the federal government, but we are able to do that for them here,” said barabani. in order to receive dental services, veterans must be registered with the soldiers’ home and have received treatment from the solders’ home outpatient department. Veterans and family members can then be seen at any of holyoke health Center’s community offices in Chicopee, holyoke, springfield or Westfield. To learn more and schedule appointments, please call 413-420-6720.

The Veterans’ Assistance Center opened in 2013 and is staffed by volunteers from the disabled American Veterans and the VFW trained to write federal claims and assist with the process to get the government benefits entitled for

service to the country. “There is a huge amount of benefits and a lot of veterans don’t know what they are,” said Richard Connor, Veterans’ Assistance Center volunteer with the dAV. “There are benefits for disability, for dependents and even older vets. Whatever someone may be eligible for, we try to help get them those benefits.” Conner, a local Vietnam veteran who served in the Army, does this work as a thank you to the person who helped him file three years ago. “it’s like a pay it forward,” he said. “it’s fulfilling for me, and the other volunteers here feel the same way, because someone once helped them, too.”

Conner shared that the office works with an average of 80 percent Vietnam veterans, but younger veterans are starting to reach out. “We have very few younger vets, i think, because many want to do it on their own without anyone else. Our goal is to help every veteran of any age. They don’t have to go without just because they don’t know where to turn or because no one told them [where to go],” he said. A resource for all in the community, the Veterans’

Assistance Center at the soldiers’ home in holyoke is open Monday through Thursday by appointment. The center’s phone number is 413-538-5923.

The solders’ home also collaborates with two Massachusetts department of Veterans’ services programs: the statewide Advocacy for Veterans’ empowerment (s.A.V.e.) and the statewide housing Advocacy Reintegration and Prevention (s.h.A.R.P.). s.A.V.e. works to ensure veterans have a voice to help them get the proper care that they deserve; s.h.A.R.P. has teams focused on ending homelessness for veterans and their families. “We talk about care with honor and dignity. We believe it and we practice that. Our staff is truly committed and compassionate and understanding of our veterans’ needs and the community itself. being able to expand is what makes us different from any other long-term care facility,” said barabani.

best known for its interdisciplinary geriatric and extended health care services, the soldiers’ home is a place where


veterans in need can receive long-term, nursing home-level care that includes medical and help with activities of daily living. eligibility is based on clinical need and availability. For more information, please contact Admissions at 413-552-4764. long-term care is comprised of Veteran Care Centers where staff members function as a team. each has an assigned physician and a registered nurse who serves as the care coordinator for individual needs of nursing, geriatric psychiatry, dietary, recreation therapy and rehabilitation services. The department of social Work at the soldiers’ home is a vital part of the professional services provided to veterans enrolled in care at both the long-term and the domiciliary centers.

The domiciliary is a separate building on the soldiers’ home campus that accommodates those who need some assistance with the activities of daily life. Veterans living there are able to participate in a wide range of social programs like events, bingos, picnics and trips sponsored by area veteran organizations. They want

to do the same activities that they did in their own homes. Motorcycle runs, cruise nights, classic automobiles – we integrate it all and it becomes part of that one common purpose to support our veterans,” said John Paradis, retired usAF lieutenant colonel and director of outreach, communications and intergovernmental relations at the soldiers’ home.

“i like living here. The care that they give you here is unbelievable,” said Tony Page, a 92-year-old World War ii Army Air Corp veteran who has lived in the domiciliary center for five years. “They are the most devoted people in the world, the ones that are running this place, and they are an example for all other institutions like this to follow.”

The Outpatient department, staffed by top primary care physicians and a myriad of consultant specialists, has a blossoming relationship with the Alzheimer’s Association. They are now able to offer veterans 50 years or older screenings for cognitive decline or impairment in addition to help to navigating the needs for diagnosis and treatment. “it’s a multi-

faceted program with the Alzheimer’s Association, and the key component is our early detection screening. it’s critical that we catch [the disease] early so that they can still make competent decisions as to what they want for their futures,” said barabani. he estimates that 65 to 70 percent of the veterans at the soldiers’ home have cognitive impairment or an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis. he noted the importance of working with families so that they can cope while they support their loved one’s needs. “We do support groups for families who have their veterans here,” added barabani. “Quality of care and the quality of life is greatly enhanced when everyone comes together. it’s an absolutely incredible environment here at the soldiers’ home, and the feedback we get re-emphasizes and quantifies just how good the families and the veterans feel about being here and being part of our community.”

The holyoke soldiers’ home is located at 110 Cherry st. in holyoke. For more information, please call 413-532-9475 or visit www.friendsofthesoldiershome.org.

For information about any of our programs, contactbrookfi eld.institute @gmail.com or visit www.brookfi eldinstitute.org.

All events are at the Brookfi eld Institute, unless otherwise noted.Questions? Comments? Just want to drop us a note? We take the timeto read all our e-mail and will certainly respond as soon as possible.

Th e Brookfi eld Institute is located at the Brookfi eld Inn on Route 9 in Brookfi eld, MA, at the junction of Route 148. Th e street address is 8 W.Main Street, Brookfi eld, MA 01506 - P.O. Box 388

Phone: (774) 757-0425

THE ARBORS®

Assisted Living Residential Communities

The Arbors offers seniors all the benefits of

independent living in the privacy of their own apartment—with the security of knowing that

caring assistance isavailable whenever it

is needed. Residentsenjoy the companion-

ship of neighbors,fri nd nd f mil

Are Proud to Support the Brave Men & Women of Our Military.

We thank you for your service.AMHERST • CHICOPEE • WESTFIELD

(413) 548-6800 (413) 593-0088 (413) 562-0001

GREENFIELD • MASON WRIGHT managed by The Arbor

AMHERST • CHICOPEE • WESTFIELD(413) 548-6800 (413) 593-0088 (413) 562-0001


Wednesday, April 9, 2014 – Governor deval Patrick today

held a ceremonial bill signing for s. 1878, “An Act Relative to Veterans’ Allowances, labor, Outreach and Recognition,” also known as the “VAlOR Act ii,” underscoring the Patrick Administration’s continued commitment to Massachusetts veterans and their families.The

legislation creates increased supports for workforce training for veterans, continued access to veterans’ services and increased protections for servicemen and women seeking higher education in the Commonwealth. The VAlOR Act ii was signed into law by the Governor on Thursday, April 3, 2014.

“i am proud to sign the VAlOR Act ii to further enhance our strong supports for the Commonwealth’s

veterans,” said Governor Patrick. “Massachusetts leads the nation in providing services for veterans and their families, and this legislation reinforces our commitment to making opportunities and resources available to the Massachusetts men and women who have served, and continue to serve us.”

VAlOR Act ii provides $350,000 for the training and certification of veterans’ services officers through

Governor Patrick signs Valor Act ii, ensuring Continued support For Massachusetts Veterans


the department of Veterans’ services (dVs) and will allow dVs to develop training and guidelines to ensure the Commonwealth has trained and qualified veterans’ advocates at the community level. The Act will also ensure municipal compliance with Chapter 115 so that all Massachusetts veterans have access to the highest quality assistance regardless of where they live. Chapter 115 is a state law requiring that all cities and towns in the Commonwealth provide local veterans’ agents to serve as community advocates, but also to administer the financial benefits available to veterans and their family members. Those eligible can receive financial assistance for food, shelter, clothing, housing supplies and medical care.

The Act also requires the division of Professional licensure to waive application fees for members of the armed forces for which the division will accept education, training or service completed by the applicant toward qualification requirements to receive license or certification. The legislation also prohibits active military enrolled at public and private colleges and universities from academic or financial penalties by virtue of their service. A student who enrolls, but is unable to complete a course because he or she is called to active duty, can complete the course

at a later date, or withdraw with a full refund of fees and tuition.

“i am proud of Massachusetts for continuing its tradition of leading the nation in supporting our veterans, military members and their families,” said senate President Therese Murray. “it is our responsibility to ensure that these men and women have access to the best care and services, while on duty and when they return home, and we do this out of gratitude and respect for the sacrifices they make for our safety on a daily basis.”

“This legislation sends a message to our veterans that we appreciate their bravery, sacrifice and service,” said house speaker Robert A. deleo. “Most importantly, it aids those who have supported America during some of the country’s most difficult times by providing resources to help them build a bright future. i’m incredibly proud that Massachusetts leads the nation in this regard and i thank the Patrick Administration, senate President Murray, Chairman basile and my colleagues in the legislature for building on this tradition.”

“This is another historic piece of legislation here in the Commonwealth to support veterans and their families,” said secretary of Veterans’ services Coleman Nee. “The certification

and training language will allow the Commonwealth to ensure that our front-line resources, the municipal veterans’ agents, are the finest trained and most knowledgeable veterans’ advocates in the country. i thank the Governor and the legislature for their work maintaining Massachusetts as the national leader in veterans’ benefits and services.”

VAlOR Act ii builds off record investments in veterans services made by the Patrick Administration. in 2012, Governor Patrick signed “An Act Relative to Veterans’ Access, livelihood, Opportunity, and Resources”, or the VAlOR Act. building upon the VAlOR Act, which, in part, required certain areas of state government to establish military-friendly practices for licensing, the Patrick Administration announced that all state agencies that oversee professional licensing within the Administration have established guidelines to assist members of the armed forces, veterans and their spouses as they prepare and apply for jobs in Massachusetts. The Patrick Administration then expanded this action to reach all relevant agencies within the executive branch. This component of the VAlOR Act was inspired by a request from first lady Michelle Obama and the Joining Forces initiative to ensure that those who have served in the military have


a streamlined and efficient process through which to obtain appropriate licensure for jobs when they are home. in 2013, Governor Patrick also signed an executive order to help small businesses owned by disabled veterans gain access to contracts for public projects in the areas of construction, design and goods and services procurement.

The Patrick Administration leads the nation in veteran services and continues to implement employment assistance and workforce training programs for members of the armed forces, veterans and their spouses. in 2011, the Administration launched an aggressive employment campaign focused on increasing the hiring of Massachusetts veterans. Among these initiatives, the Patrick Administration partnered with major trade associations to encourage them to hire veterans and circulate information on veterans’ benefits. One example includes the Administration’s partnership with the Greater boston Chamber of Commerce to launch the “boots to business” program, which expands mentoring and networking opportunities and educates local employers about the skills service members gain in the military. Connecting veterans’ initiatives with the Greater boston Chamber of Commerce was the first step of

a statewide program designed to provide networking and mentoring opportunities for veterans of all generations. “boots to business” currently has over 30 mentors from local companies working with veterans.

To lead by example, Governor Patrick called for the establishment of an interagency Taskforce on hiring Veterans within the executive branch. The secretary of Administration and Finance charged the head of the human Resources division along with Taskforce members to take a critical look at the executive branch’s current policies, processes and practices on hiring veterans and recently completed this plan.

“With VAlOR Act ii, Massachusetts recognizes the enormous sacrifices that are made by our veterans and their families,” said senator Joan lovely. “Our country and our Commonwealth are indebted to these service men and women, so it’s important to honor our veterans by expanding services and pursuing new initiatives to help them as best we can. ”

“We owe our veterans nothing but the best for their service,” said Representative Claire d. Cronin. “Veterans deserve to be at the top of our list of priorities. We must continue to ensure that we provide

for our veterans and their families. This legislation honors and serves those who have sacrificed so much for us.”

“Massachusetts has long led the nation in recognizing and providing for veterans and their families. This bill continues our proud tradition by providing additional benefits to veterans, while also addressing concerns that the veterans’ community has brought to our attention,” said Representative Carolyn dykema. “This legislation allows us as a Commonwealth to better fulfill our duty to support those who defend our freedoms and our way of life.”

“The Valor Act ii is a sensible law that will improve the lives of Massachusetts veterans and their families,” said Representative brian Mannal. “The law builds upon the original Valor Act, and will substantially improve veterans’ services in Massachusetts by addressing a broad range of veterans’ issues, from job training and education to affordable housing and the uniform provision of veterans’ services in the Commonwealth. Among other things, the law will double the size of buffer zones around military funerals to limit protests and will allow fallen soldiers to be buried in peace by their loved ones. The law will also allow soldiers


THE GAUDREAU GROUPInsurance and Financial Services Agency

TRUSTED SINCE 1921

We’ve got you covered.1984 Boston Road

P.O. Box 369Wilbraham, MA 01095

(413) 543-3534

Proudly SalutesOur Veterans

Home • Auto • Business

Rt. 32, 444 Lower Road, Gilbertville, MA 01031

413-477-6913 • www.hardwickfarmers.netOpen: Mon-Fri 8AM-6PM, Sat 8AM-5PM, Sun 9AM-3PM

The Co-op has a staff of about20 customer-focused peoplewho are ready to help you.

In Appreciation For All You Do For Our Country

Veterans Get

10% OFF Your Entire Purchase

July 1st thru July 14th- mention this ad -

Since 1914Farm pet & Garden Supplies

who are called away on active duty while enrolled in college to delay their classes without penalty or receive a full refund if they withdraw. We need this law, and i am proud to say that i am a member of the committee that worked on it.”

“As a member of the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs and one of ten veterans in the house and senate, it makes me proud that Governor Patrick continues to lead the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in signing legislation that helps keep us #1 in the united states of America when it comes to providing our Veterans with services and benefits,” said Representative dennis A. Rosa.

“i am proud to have been able to vote in favor of this legislation that supports those that have served our country as members of the greatest armed services in the world,” said Representative Walter Timilty. “Anytime that we, as a legislature and as a nation, have the opportunity to support our troops, we must do everything in our power to do so.”

More than 385,000 veterans currently live in Massachusetts, including 42,000 men and women who have served in iraq and Afghanistan since 9/11. The Patrick Administration has worked to ensure newly returning veterans, as well as Massachusetts’ aging veteran population, continue to receive quality health, housing and employment services to honor their service. To learn more about services for Massachusetts veterans, visit www.mass.gov/veterans.

SEWING CREATIONS by Mini Pearl

All Your Sewing Needs. No Job Too Small. Zipper Specialist.

10% OFFFOR VETERANS

* Ask About Mini’s Ironing Club

413-213-1042REFER A FRIEND RECEIVE A GIFT

LEAVE A MESSAGE


sPRiNGField – The springfield Museums will once again join over 2,000 museums across the country by participating in the blue star Museums Program, which provides free admission to active duty military personnel and their families from Memorial day through labor day. The blue star Museums Program is a collaboration with the National endowment for the Arts, blue star Families and the department of defense.

“We are proud and honored to continue our participation in this

wonderful program this year,” said holly smith-bové, president of the Museums. “it’s one small thing that the springfield Museums can do to support the individuals and families who sacrifice so much in serving our country.”

Free general admission is available for the duration of the program to any active duty member of the military

(Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, National Guard and Reserve, u.s. Public health service Commissioned Corps and NOAA Commissioned Corps) and up to five family members. At the time of entry, military members must show a Geneva Convention Common Access card (CAC), a dd Form 1173 card, or a dd Form 1173-1 id card. Participants will receive general admission to all four springfield museums; planetarium shows or other special program fees are not included.

springfield Museums to participate in 2014 blue star Museums Program

summer 2014DefenDersoffreeDom�1

STARt to get better faster.

reveraWestfield.com

STAR (Specialized Therapy And Rehab) is an intensive, personalized therapy regimen that is patient-centered and service-oriented.

Offering Skilled care for: STAR short-stay rehab respite careExtended residential care hospice care

We accept many insurances, including Veterans Administration (VA). Please call us for details.

37 Feeding Hills Rd., Westfield, MA 413-568-2341

WObuRN – u.s. Pavement services proudly announces it is leading a national initiative – the Pledge to hire Veterans. The program encourages other businesses to take the pledge to hire veterans for full-time jobs. u.s. Pavement services is the leading provider of paving, sealcoating, crack sealing, line striping and concrete services.

“since the inception of the Pledge in January 2014, u.s. Pavement has encouraged more than 31 companies to take the pledge,” said Mike Musto, CeO, u.s. Pavement.

To date, the company has hired four

full-time veterans in its New england-based operation, including steve bohn, former u.s. Army specialist of the 101st Airborne division. bohn’s relationship with the company began on June 8, 2013, at a pre-game charity event at Fenway Park developed in partnership with the Wounded Warrior Project™. he was hired in March 2014 to oversee the Pledge program.

“u.s. veterans have served and protected our country, so helping this group to gain meaningful employment is the least we can do to thank them for their sacrifice,” said Musto. “Veterans are well-trained, skilled, structured and

ready to work.”As part of his duties, bohn will

interface with local and national companies in order to help them facilitate the hiring of veterans.

“As the first step in this campaign, u.s. Pavement is asking companies to hire one veteran,” said bohn.

Companies may qualify for Federal Tax Credits (up to $9,600) for each u.s. veteran hired. To learn more about the Pledge to hire Veterans campaign, please visit www.uspavement.com/pledge or call 1-800-PAVeMeNT (1-800-728-3636) to speak to a representative today.

u.s. Pavement launchespledge to hire veterans


bOsTON – senator stephen M. brewer (d-barre), chairman of the senate Committee on Ways and Means, announced that the Fiscal year 2015 senate Final budget includes $185,000 in funding for the exchange Club of spencer for the development of the spencer Veterans’ Citizen-soldier Memorial.

“As senate chairman of Ways and Means, i was able to include these funds in the Fy 2015 senate budget for the development of a memorial that will be dedicated to the Citizen-soldier of wars past and present,” said senator

brewer. “The incorporation of this memorial into the existing monuments honoring those who have served our nation since the Civil War will be a tribute to the lives lost in the pursuit of protecting the principals for which our country was built. it is our duty and privilege to honor all of our veterans as a Commonwealth.”

Funding for the spencer Citizen-soldier Memorial was not included in the house of Representatives’ budget and will be subject to change as the conference committee negotiates

the differences between their versions of the budget.

“in my capacity as senate chair of the Conference Committee, i will have the opportunity to continue my advocacy for the Memorial and maintain its funding in the final version of the legislatures’ budget,” stated brewer.

The Conference Committee is comprised of three members from the house of Representatives and three members from the senate.

brewer champions funding for Citizen-soldier Memorial in spencer


Have a Fun Day!Little FriendsChild Care Center

We care for children 1-year to 9-years old • 7 am to 5:30 pm• Morning Preschool 9:15am-1pm $16 per day; 2-5 day combo• Full Day Preschool 7am-5:30pm• Infant/Toddler 7am-5:30pm• Before/After School

E-mail: [email protected] | Website: Littlefriends39.com58 Daniel Shays Highway, Belchertown, MA • 413-323-8447

ACCEPTING REGISTRATIONS

FOR FALL

...where local is just the

beginning!

Atkins Farms Military Discount: Save 10% OFF your total purchase

1150 West St. (Bay Road & Route 116), Amherst, MA 01002(413) 253-9528 • www.atkinsfarms.com

Country BakeryFarm Fresh Produce

Homemade Fudge120 Varieties Cheese

Gift Department

Seasonal Ice Cream Shop

Fresh Sushi BarOld Time Butcher Shop

Fresh Seafood

Deli & LunchesSpecialty Foods

Full Service FloristFruit & Gift Baskets

Beer & Wine

Thank you for your service!SHERMAN & FRYDRYK, LLC

~In business Over 60 years~3 CONVERSE ST, SUITE 203, PALMER, MA 01069

TEL: 413-283-6210~FAX: 413-289-1025

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://shermanfrydryk.com

Richard Prochnow, veterans’ agent in Wilbraham, has announced new id cards for veterans enrolled in VA health Care

The VA is introducing a new, secure identification card called the Veteran health identification Card (VhiC). VhiC replaces the Veteran identification Card (ViC), which was introduced in 2004. VA is committed to providing the high-quality, safe and effective health care veterans have earned and deserve, and part of this effort includes ensuring the personal security of veterans.As part of a phased rollout, on February 21,2014, VA began issuing the newly-designed, more secure VhiC to newly enrolled and other veterans who were not issured a ViC. in April, VA began a replacement effort to automatically mail the more secure VhiC to veterans who have the old ViC. All veterans who are enrolled and have the old card should have their new replacement card by July.

To ensure receipt of the new VhiC, enrolled veterans should make sure that the VA has their correct mailing address.

if the veteran does not receive a card by Aug. 1, they should call the health clinic at 25 bond st. in springfield at 413-731-6000.

Veteransget Additional

Discounts!

NAPA AUTO PARTS®

WARE•WEST BROOKFIELD175 West St., Ware

413-967-5121 • 967-3184Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8-7; Sat. 8-3; Sun. 9-2

116 Federal St.(Rt. 9) Belchertown

413-323-7661 • 323-9296

117 West Main St.,W. Brookfield • 508-867-9947

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8-5:30; Sat. 8-3

NAPA will Donate $1 to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund for every Battery, Alternator or Starter rebate redeemed in July.

And you can donate all or a portion of your rebate. Ask us how!

onBatteries,

Alternators & Starters

*By Mail-In Rebate. On Qualifying NAPA Batters, Alternators and Starters.See us for details.


For his accomplishments both in and out of school, steve Jones, an hCC honors student, psychology

major, married father of three, and u.s. veteran of the war in iraq, was honored at the state house in boston May 8 with a “29 Who shine” award. The annual awards from the dept. of higher education recognize one student from each of the 29 public colleges and universities in Massachusetts.

“i am proud, honored and humbled to represent holyoke Community College this year,” said Jones. “i know that there are many other students at hCC who are equally deserving of this recognition.”

“After returning to college after so many years away, i didn’t know what to expect. i didn’t know how much i loved to learn,” Jones said. “i am truly honored to represent holyoke Community College as one of the ‘29 Who shine.”

Jones, 40, was accompanied to the state house by his staff mentor Cindy Macdonald, a learning specialist with the hCC Office of students with disabilities and deaf services. Jones first met Macdonald when she was working at hCC as the veterans’ services coordinator and she became his academic advisor.

“Cindy has been my most encouraging and enthusiastic supporter,” Jones said. “she was the first

person i met at hCC. she said, ‘you veterans, you succeed. you tend to do very well. you’ve performed under pressure and stress.’ it really lifted me up, given that i hadn’t been to school in 20 years.”

Jones grew up in easthampton and entered hCC at the age of 18, right after graduating from smith Vocational high school in Northampton. Working nights as a dishwasher, he would leave his job at 2 a.m., then get up a few hours later for 8 o’ clock classes.

“i came in with really no direction,” said Jones. “i just didn’t have a plan. College wasn’t something i should have been doing at that time.”

so, Jones dropped out, got married, and found a job at C&s Wholesale

Grocers in hatfield, where he still works today as a receiving manager — full-time — supervising 125 employees on the 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. shift, sunday through Thursday.

A couple of years ago, at the suggestion of his supervisors, Jones decided to go back to college. in 2012, he returned to hCC through the Fresh start program, which, once in a lifetime, allows students who have been gone at least three years to wipe out a poor academic record.

“i didn’t want to study business, because numbers aren’t that important to me,” says Jones. “What i really like about the work i do is interacting with the people and the employees and helping them not just with work but with the struggles they have in life.”

hCC student, Marine Corps veteran, receives state house honor

Steve Jones’ first shot at college ended in failure. The second time, 20 years later, he found success.


Make Your Appointment Today – Visit Our Website

www.amherstpediatrics.net

AMHERST PEDIATRICS

Caring for theChildren You Keep Safe

Open Regular Hours 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Monday - Fridayand for

URGENT CARE5 pm – 7pm Monday through Friday

12 pm – 4 pm Saturday, Sunday and Holidays

31A Hall Drive • Amherst, MA 01002413-253-3773 • [email protected]

We are always accepting new patients!

www.wingatehealthcare.com

9 Maple Street, Wilbraham, MA 01095 866-441-9266AT WILBRAHAM

Short-Term Rehabilitation Long-Term Care Hospice Care

Jones will graduate from hCC this year with high honors and an associate degree in psychology.

he’ll continue to study psychology in the elms College weekend bachelor’s degree program at hCC. After that, he plans to pursue a master’s degree in art therapy and a doctorate in clinical psychology at springfield College.

ultimately, he wants to work with veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress, a career path shaped by the eight years Jones spent in the u.s. Marine Corps Reserve.

“i have a lot of friends who suffer from PTsd, and i don’t have any answers for that right now,” said Jones. “so i need schooling to be able to help them and people like them.”

Jones had always wanted to join the military and finally did at 28, signing up for the reserves so he would be stationed close to his home and family in Russell.

he appeared for his physical exam on sept. 11, 2001, the day terrorists attacked the united states. The next day, Jones was sworn in.

in 2004, his unit deployed to iraq, where Jones served in airborne control and command in support of troop operations, performing resupply missions as well as medical and casualty evacuations, rising to the rank of sergeant.

For the past 11 years, Jones and his wife, brenda, have hosted a special Christmas feast for veterans, many of

whom are homeless. Once the event had outgrown their dining room, they built a three-car garage that they transform each holiday season into a banquet hall. last Christmas, they welcomed 75 veterans into their home. Jones notes that the dinner is not just about feeding hungry people.

“This is for the camaraderie,” he said. “We’re veterans. This is what we do. We’re there for each other.”

he calls it a blessing.“i’ve had grown men i’ve never met

before, hugging me, crying, telling me it’s the best Christmas they’ve ever had,” says Jones. “That’s really what it’s about, making other people feel good.”


Veterans OrganizationsHAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAMagawaM VeteranS CounCilChairman: Christopher Sanchez36 Main St., Agawam, 01001

aMeriCan legion wilSon-thoMpSonpoSt 185PO Box 186, Feeding Hills, MA 01030 Phone: 413-301-0944Email: [email protected]

MaSSaChuSettS VeteranS’MeMorial CeMetery Director: William Walls 1390 Main St., Agawam, MA 01001Phone: 413-821-9500Fax: 413-821-9839

VeteranS SerViCeSDirector: Richard J. Girard Jr.Deputy Director: Betty Manchino36 Main St., Agawam, MA 01001Phone: 413-786-0400 Ext. 8782/8781 Fax: 413-786-4985

BRIMFIELDaMeriCan legion poSt 263Commander: Bernie SamekMeetings at Hitchcock Free Academy, 2 Brookfield Road, Brimfield, MA 01010Phone: 413-245-7174

CHICOPEEaMVetS poSt #12Commander: Roger Roy754 Montgomery Street, Chicopee, MA 01020Phone: 413-533-8060

aMeriCan legion CharleS C. Kennedy poSt #275Commander: Louis Brault41 Robbins Road, Chicopee, MA 01020Phone: 413-592-1126Home Address: 104 Johnson Road, #207Chicopee, MA 01022Email: [email protected]

ChiCopee Center aMeriCan legion poSt #425Commander: Frank Lukasik37 Exchange Street, Chicopee, MA 01013Phone: 413-592-0370Email: [email protected]

d.a.V. Chapter 11Commander: Mark McAuliffePhone: 413-262-5009Email: [email protected]

FairView aMeriCan legion poSt #438Commander: Norm Doray292 New Ludlow Road, Chicopee, MA 01020Phone: 413-534-0513

VFw Fr. williaM daVitt poSt #625Commander: Larry Wilson374 Front Street, Chicopee, MA 01013Phone: 413-594-9821; Home: 413-534-4548Email: [email protected]

poliSh legion aMeriCan Veteran’S SerViCeS Commander: Christine GieraP.O. Box 362, Chicopee, MA 01014Phone: 592-4629Alternate Phone: 413-537-7795Cell: 337-4028Email: [email protected]

williManSett aMeriCan legion poSt #353Commander: Edward PorytalaMail correspondence to Delfo Barabani, Jr.155 Langevin Street, Chicopee, MA 01020Meetings at St. Anthony’s Social CenterChicopee, MA 01020

aMeriCan legion poSt #337Commander: Glen Brault146 Farnsworth Street, Chicopee, MA 01013Cell: 221-4246Home: 413-592-1868Email: [email protected]

EAST LONGMEADOWaMeriCan legionGunther-Rowley, MA Post 293Commander: Brian V. Tidlund3 Legion CourtPhone: 413-525-2058

HAMPDENhaMpden VFw poSt 9397Commander: Ken White190 Main St., Hampden, MA 01056Email: [email protected]

HOLYOKEaMeriCan legion poSt 25War Memorial Building310 Appleton St, Holyoke, Ma 01040Phone: 413-322-5628

aMeriCan legion poSt 325Email: [email protected] Sycamore St, Holyoke, Ma 01040Phone: 413-539-9451Hours of Operation:Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 a.m.Sunday 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

aMeriCan legion poSt 351Commander Raymond Dufrense50 St. Colby Dr., Holyoke, Ma 01040Phone: 413-534-1861

diSabled aMeriCan VeteranS Chapter 41War Memorial Building310 Appleton St, Holyoke, Ma 01040Phone: 413-322-5628

VeteranS oF Foreign warS Chapter 801War Memorial Building310 Appleton St, Holyoke, Ma 01040Phone: 413-322-5628

INDIAN ORCHARDaMeriCan legion poSt 277Commander: Dennis Harkins379 Oak St, Indian Orchard, MA 01151Phone: 413-543-7918

LUDLOWVeteranS SerViCeSDirector: Eric SegundoLudlow Town Hall488 Chapin St., Ludlow MA 01056Phone: 413-583-5600, ext. 1290

VFw poSt 3236Commander: Christine BassettLudlow Town Hall488 Chapin St., Ludlow MA 01056Phone: 413-583-5600, ext. 1290

aMeriCan legion poSt 52Commander: Louis CasagrandeP.O. Box 491Ludlow, MA 01056Phone: 413-583-3542

Korean war Veteran aSSoCiation weStern MaSS Chapter 2000Commander: Richard Reopel, Joe Koleski35 Bluegrass Lane, Ludlow, MA 01056Phone: 413-583-4405

MONSONaMeriCan legion poSt 241Commander: Mike Mahitka143 Palmer Road, Monson, MA 01057Phone: 413-267-5570

PALMERaMeriCan legion poSt 130Commander: Donald Holcomb1012 Thorndike St., Palmer, MA 01069Phone: 413-283-7832

aMVetS poSt 74Commander: Leo Paul Coyer2150 Main St., Three Rivers, MA 01080Phone: 413-283-4518

RUSSELLruSSell VFw poSt 6240Route 20Russell, MA 01071Phone: 413-485-7675

VeteranS oF Foreign warSGeneral Knox Post 6645Commander: David Therrien384 Huntington RoadPhone: 413-862-3603


Veterans OrganizationsaMVetSQuartermaster Carl Bean P.O. Box 194,Russell, MA 01071 Phone: (h) 862-4527 (c) 977-3383 Email: [email protected]

SPRINGFIELDaMeriCan legion poSt 420Adjutant: Walter Rohan290 East StreetPhone: 413-739-9941

VeteranS oF Foreign warSForest Park Post 7352Commander Eric Segundo63 Veterans WayPhone: 413-739-8658

puerto riCan VeteranS aSSoCiation52 Maple StreetPhone: 413-739-1082

VietnaM VeteranS oF aMeriCa Chapter 111President: Jack KellyP.O. Box 2671, Springfield, MA 01101Phone: 413-781-8438Cell: 433-4065Email: [email protected]

SpringField departMent oF VeteranS SerViCeSDirector: Thomas M. Belton Sr.City Hall, Room 10136 Court St., Springfield, MA 01103Phone: 311 or 413-736-3111 or 413-787-6141

WALESVeteranS oF Foreign warS poSt 2596Commander: Willie JarvisMeetings at Wales Irish Pub, 16 Holland Road, Wales, MA 01081Phone: 413-245-9730

WEST SPRINGFIELDaMeriCan legion poSt 207Commander: Lida Powell83 Park Avenue413-736-9550Disabled American Veterans425 Union StreetPhone: 413-734-8387

VietnaM VeteranS oF aMeriCa2363 Westfield [email protected] (413) 330-8333Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #866 Sfc Jorge Otero-Barreto 900 Riverdale St #121Phone: 413-734-5024

VeteranS oF Foreign warSBarcomb-Trowbridge Post 6714Commander: Herman Hochreich764 Riverdale StreetPhone: 413-736-9655

WESTFIELDaMeriCan legion poSt 124Commander: Edward Johnson38 Broad Streetwww.post124.orgPhone: 413-562-9779

aMeriCan legion Whip City Memorial, Post 454Commander: Benjamin Surprise306 Elm StreetPhone: 413-562-9890

VeteranS oF Foreign warSApremont Post 1847Commander: Lester Eldridge498 Southampton Road Phone: 413-527-4826

VietnaM VeteranS oF aMeriCa Chapter #219 P O Box 7 Liberty ChapterPhone: 413- 532-9527

WILBRAHAM aMeriCan legion poSt 286Commander: Glenn Trevallion884 Glendale RoadWilbraham, MA 01095Phone: 413-596-4302Email: [email protected]

wilbrahaM VeteranS agentriChard proChnowWilbraham Senior Center45 Post Office ParkWilbraham, MA 01095Phone: 413-596-8379Email: [email protected]

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

Central haMpShire Veteran SerViCeSThe City’s Veterans’ Agent serves all veterans in Northampton, Williamsburg, Amherst, Pelham, Chesterfield, Cummington, and in the VA Medical Center in Leeds. Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday through Friday, 8:30 – 4 p.m., Tuesday, 8:30 – 1 p.m.Phone: 587-1299 Toll Free: 1-877-821-0128Fax: 587-1062E-mail: [email protected]

AMHERSTVeteranS oF Foreign warS poSt 754457 Main St., Amherst, MA 01002Phone: 413-253-9286

aMherSt aMeriCan legion96 Amity St., Amherst, MA 01002Phone: 413-253-9036

VeteranS eduCation projeCtPO Box 416, Amherst, MA 01004Email: [email protected]: 413-253-4947

VeteranS oF Foreign warS Earl J. Sanders, Post 754Commander: Colleen Cauley457 Main StreetPhone: 413-253-9286

BELCHERTOWNbelChertown VeteranS oF Foreign warS poSt 8428 Commander Archie Archible41 Pelham Road Belchertown, MA 01007Phone: 413-323-9997Website: www.belchertownvfw.org

belChertown aMeriCan legionChauncey D. Walker Post 23966-2 State St., Belchertown, MA 01007

belChertown VeteranS SerViCeSVeterans’ Agent: Raymond Janke2 Jabish St., Belchertown, MA 01007Phone: 413-323-0409

GRANBYaMeriCan legion poSt 266Commander John Lastowski74 Pleasant Street, Granby, MA 01033Phone: 413-467-9545

EASTHAMPTONaMeriCan legion, Chapter 56Dalton Lavallee, Post 224Director: Mike Melnik190 Pleasant StreetPhone: 413-527-9882

FLORENCEVeteranS oF Foreign warSMichael Francis Curtin Post 8006Commander: Charles Coleman18 Meadow StreetPhone: 413-584-8006

HADLEYaMeriCan legion poSt 271Commander: Richard Witkos162 Russell Streetemail: [email protected]: 413-586-9699

VeteranS’ SerViCeS 44 Lawrence Place Road, Hadley, MA 01035Phone: 413-584-5436

HATFIELDaMeriCan legion, poSt 344Commander: Thomas Tataro1 Prospect StreetPhone: 413-247-9090


Veterans OrganizationsHAYDENVILLEaMeriCan legionGerald E. Larkin, Post 236Commander: Edward Roberts5 Bridge StreetPhone: 413-268-9264

NORTHAMPTONVeteranS’ SerViCeS 240 Main St., Northampton, MA 01060Phone: 413-587-1299

world war ii VeteranS aSSn50 Conz Street413-586-3315American Legion, Post 28Commander: Thomas Ouimet63 Riverside DrivePhone: 413-584-5519

WAREearl F. howe aMeriCan legion poSt 12345 Maple St. Commander Richard ZebrowskiMeets the second Sunday of each month at 11 a.m.Phone: 413-967-9762

aMeriCan legion poSt 123 auxiliary45 Maple St.Meets the first Friday of the month at 6:30 p.m.

aMeriCan legion poSt 123Sons of the LegionCommander Alan Lloyd45 Maple St. Meets the first Sunday of the month at 10 a.m.Phone: 413-967-9762

aMVetS poSt 257745 Maple St. Commander Richard RuckiMeetings are on the third Tuesdayof the month at 7 p.m. (No meetings in July and August)Phone: 413-967-3484

Marine CorpS league45 Maple St. Commander Francis RuckiMeetings are on the second Sunday of the month at 1 p.m. Phone: 413-967-7349

VeteranS CounCil oF ware45 Maple St.Commander Mike DomeyMeetings are on the secondThursday of the month at 7 p.m. Phone: 413-967-5837

VFw poSt 2577 Commander Lonny Murphy, 45 Maple St., Meetings are on the first Wednesdayof the month at 7 p.m.Phone: 413-219-6362

VFw poSt 2577 auxiliaryPresident Coleen HaddockMeetings are at Stanley M. Koziol Elementary School on the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.Phone: 413-387-2361

VietnaM VeteranS oF aMeriCa,Quabbin Valley Capter 40545 Maple St.Commander Rocky SnowMeetings are on the second Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m.Phone: 413-967-9762

VeteranS’agent MarK aViSOffice hours are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. or by appointment Phone: 413-967-4248, ext. 182

ware Marine CorpSMeets at noon on the second Sunday of the month at American Legion Post 23 in Ware at 45 Maple St.Phone: 413-967-7349

FRANKLIN COUNTY

ASHFIELDaMeriCan legion poSt 245Commander: Warren KirkpatrickPO Box 463Phone: 413-625-0020

GREENFIELDaMeriCan legionLt. John J. Galvin, Post 81 Commander: David Lewis7 Legion Avenueemail: [email protected]: 413-772-0857

VeteranS oF Foreign warS John F Harringtion Post 417Commander: Bernard Schatz193 Barton Road

VietnaM VeteranS oFaMeriCa Chapter #23254 High Street #[email protected]://71.234.189.96/chapter-232/index.htmlPhone: 413-522-7292

SHELBURNE FALLSVeteranS oF Foreign warSKennedy-Chamberlain Post 8503Commander: David Kearney19 Water StreetPhone: 413-625-9277

aMeriCan legion, poSt 135Commander: Lesley Chadwick10 Hope StreetPhone: 413-625-2864email: [email protected]

SOUTH DEERFIELDaMeriCan legion Ross-Orloski, Post 348Commander: Raymond Billiel190 Christian Lane413-665-7058

TURNERS FALLSaMeriCan legion Clarence W. Allen, Post 178Commander: Brian Sansoucie9 Burnett StreetPhone: 413-863-8486

GILBERTVILLE (VILLAGE of HARDWICK)gilbertVille aMeriCan legion poSt 246Commander: Donald Martel4 Prospect Avenue, Gilbertville, MA 01031Phone: 413-477-6440

VFw poSt 9093President: Charles J. KruckasParker Court, P.O. Box 144, Gilbertville, MA 01031

HARDWICKaMeriCan legion poSt 246John J. Weir24 Prospect St., GilbertvilleCommander Donald MartelMeets the third Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m.Phone: 413-477-6440Veterans’ Agent Gary WoodOffice hours are the first Monday of the month from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. or by appointmentPhone: 413-477-6197, ext. 119

NEW BRAINTREEVeteranS’ agent williaM KleinedlerOffice hours are the second Monday of the month from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Phone: 508-867-6314

REGIONAL

Veterans Crisis linePhone: 1-800-273-8255 and press 1Website: VeteransCrisisLine.netText: 838255

homeless Veteran trainingand jobs Veterans, inc.69 Grove St., Worcester, MA 01605Phone: 508-791-0956,ext. 125 to apply for servicesWebsite: www.veteransinc.org

uS Veteran’s administrationwww.va.gov

Massachusetts Veterans’ websitewww.mass.gov/Veterans


Equal Housing Lender. Member FDIC, Member DIF

Monson 267-4646 • Hampden 566-0101 • Wilbraham 596-2848 • Ware 967-0912Loan Center 267-4513 • TDD 267-4646 •

Monson SavingsYour Bank Forever

w w w . m o n s o n s a v i n g s . c o m

where people save, businesses prosper, communities benefit

Thank you fordefending us!


“ENERGY STAR” is a registered trademark of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. © 2010 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved.

leaderhome.com

123 Street Address Line 2 Address

Town Name, ST 00000 (111) 111-1111

6 Convenient Locations:150 College Street, Amherst, MA 01002 413-253-341199 South Barre Road, Barre, MA 01005 978-355-3411225 Marlboro Road, Brattleboro, VT 05301 802-257-737316 Elm Street, South Deerfi eld, AM 01373 413-665-88811123 Bernardston Rd, Greenfi eld, MA 01301 413-774-6311

New! 321 Main Street, Bennington, VT 05201“4 Corners” 802-442-3131

Leader Home Centers Extends a Thank You to All of OurArmed Forces

Come to us for all our exceptional products & knowledge in building.

Let us welcome you to your dream home.

DefenDers A T U R L E Y P U B L I C A T I O N of free€¦ · summer 2014 DefenDers of freeDom R...

Documents

Transcript of DefenDers A T U R L E Y P U B L I C A T I O N of free€¦ · summer 2014 DefenDers of freeDom R...