In North Attleborough, community members gathered on Monday, Nov. 11, to honor the town’s veterans with a heartfelt Veterans Day ceremony.
Local leaders shared reflections on the importance of the holiday, gratitude for those who served, and personal experiences that highlighted the sacrifices made by veterans and their families.
State Rep. Adam Scanlon acknowledged the day’s significance.
“It is only thanks to our veterans that we enjoy the freedoms we do today,” he said, addressing a crowd that included service members, their families and residents. “Service members that have been deployed and those who gave service during peacetime…earn our eternal gratitude for their service.”
He closed with a reminder that the community must remember the sacrifice of these heroes: “May we never forget them or take their sacrifice for granted.”
Town Council President Justin Pare also expressed the community’s appreciation, directing his words to the veterans in attendance.
“To our veterans here today, we owe you more than words can express. You have shown us what it means to put country before self.”
Reflecting on the impact of veterans in shaping the country, Pare added, “You are the heroes of our past, protectors of our present, and the inspiration for our future.”
Plainville Selectman Brian Kelly drew attention to how the meaning of Veterans Day has endured despite its evolving name over the years.
“While the name of this special day has changed over the years, the purpose hasn’t…We owe so much to you, and it’s a debt we can never repay,” he stated.
In recognition of Plainville’s new status as a Purple Heart Community, Kelly remarked, “We owe our very way of life…to you and our unwavering commitment to our freedoms.”
Town Councilor Andrea Slobogan share a personal story about growing up as the daughter of a Vietnam veteran. Recounting her unique perspective on military life, she shared, “Growing up with a Vietnam vet as a dad brought a unique perspective on life.”
Slobogan revealed that only recently has she been able to learn more about her father’s military service.
“Just a week ago, I had the courage to ask him his official rank… (his) medals included three Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star,” she said.
Her reflections highlighted the silent struggles veterans often face, “For so many, the battle doesn’t end when they come home…As a community, we must recognize these challenges and make sure those who have served are truly cared for.”
Human Resources Director Dr. Cheryl Butts shared her journey of marrying a Navy SEAL and becoming an American citizen. Recalling the adjustments of life in a new country with a military spouse, she said, “Here we are, three decades later, living the American dream.”
From adapting to a new culture to understanding the challenges of military life, Butts described how her husband’s dedication inspired her own commitment to the United States.
“Having a spouse in the military and witnessing his dedication to his country…that sense of loyalty…is what sparked my desire to stand beside him as his wife and as a fellow citizen,” she said.
This Veterans Day remembrance was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans, both during and after combat. As North Attleborough honored its heroes, the community reflected on the ongoing responsibility to support and appreciate those who have served.
