Lynnfield Veterans Day Ceremony Honors Heroes, Inspires Future
UPDATE: A heartfelt ceremony took place on November 11, 2023, at the Veterans Memorial in Lynnfield, where community members united to honor the sacrifices of American veterans. The event featured moving speeches from military and civilian leaders, emphasizing the importance of freedom and service.
Emceed by Veterans Agent Bruce Siegel, the ceremony highlighted the impactful words of Select Board Chairman Phil Crawford, who reflected on the profound bond shared by all veterans. “Whether they serve in a time of peace or of war, all American veterans share a common bond: their unwavering belief in the cause of freedom,” he stated.
The guest of honor, retired Army Capt. David Gallo, a proud native of Lynnfield, delivered a powerful address recalling his experience during Desert Storm and the Lynnfield veterans who inspired him throughout his life. Gallo, who enlisted in the Army National Guard in 1984 and rose to captain by 1997, shared personal anecdotes that emphasized the sacrifices made not only by veterans but also by their families.
“How we treat our veterans, how we honor them, determines whether the future generations are willing to serve,” Gallo asserted. “This has a direct impact on the security of our country and its people today and every day.”
Gallo’s reflection on his youth included memories of Lauren Lengyel, a Lynnfield hero who served in Vietnam and endured six years as a prisoner of war. He recalled the influence of Lengyel’s courage on his own journey through challenges faced in battle. In a touching moment, Gallo revealed that as he prepared to retire in 2007, he reached out to Lengyel, expressing how his story inspired him during difficult times. Lengyel’s response, thanking Gallo for his service, deeply resonated with him.
The ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans and their families. Gallo poignantly noted, “I remember my own wife being much more nervous about me going off to war than I was.” His remarks underscored the emotional toll that service members’ families bear during deployments.
Crawford also provided historical context, explaining that Veterans Day was originally called Armistice Day, created to celebrate the end of World War I, often referred to as “the war to end all wars.”
The event concluded with a call to action for the community, urging all present to honor veterans not just on Veterans Day, but every day. Gallo emphasized the importance of remembering these heroes for the future of the nation.
This ceremony not only celebrated the past but also inspired the commitment to uphold the values and sacrifices of those who served. As Lynnfield continues to honor its veterans, the community stands united in ensuring that the stories of these heroes are never forgotten.
