Updates from the Franklin Veterans Service Office - May 2025 Schedule

May 7– Veterans’ Coffee Social – 10:00 AM at the Senior Center. All Veterans are welcome to join us for updates, coffee and conversation! Socials are held the first Wednesday of every month.

May 9 – Military Spouse Appreciation Day – This date recognizes the services and sacrifices of military spouses. Thank you to all military spouses for your love, loyalty and support!

May 15 – Veterans’ Council/Memorial Day Parade Meeting – 7:00 PM at the Senior Center. All members of the community interested in Veterans’ activities are invited. Parade volunteers are needed.

May 17 - Armed Forces Day – An annual holiday observed to pay tribute to men and women currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Thank you to all members of the U. S. Military. We salute you for your service and sacrifices!

 

Franklin Senior Center

May 23 – Memorial Day Breakfast – 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM at the Senior Center. RSVP by May 9, 2025. Veterans will be given first preference.

May 26 – Memorial Day - Honors the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. Military. The Memorial Day Parade will begin at 11 a.m., starting at Horace Mann School, right onto Oak St., continues onto Daniel McCahill St., continues onto Union St., left onto West Central St., left onto Emmons St., left onto Main St., ending on the Town Common, where a Memorial Day Ceremony will be held at 12:00 p.m. If any Veteran would like to participate in the parade, please contact our office.

Veterans Memorial Walkway - The May installation of engraved bricks on the Walkway will be completed by Memorial Day. Thank you to all who’ve supported this project by honoring their special U.S. Service Members with a brick. The next installation will be in November to coincide with Veterans’ Day. Brick order forms are available in the Town Hall and Senior Center lobbies and on the Veterans’ Services page on the Town website.

Please let our office know if you or a family member (residing in Franklin) is a Purple Heart recipient. National Purple Heart Day is celebrated on August 7 every year. 

The Tune It Out guitar lessons program for Veterans meets on Tuesdays at 5:30 PM at the Senior Center. There is no charge for lessons and no guitar experience is required. We have guitars! Call our office for details. 

The Warrior Within Yoga program for Veterans and First Responders meets on Thursdays from 6:00 – 7:00 PM at the Senior Center. Call our office to sign up.

 

 

MassVets: Veteran Financial Benefits

Massachusetts has a new MassVets Benefit Estimator, designed to help veterans and their families quickly determine their eligibility for monthly financial assistance. The MassVets Benefit Estimator provides a more seamless experience for veterans seeking financial relief through the Chapter 115 Safety Net Program. Massachusetts has the best veterans benefits in the nation and this new tool reaffirms our commitment to helping those who served our country and provides robust information on what’s available under Chapter 115.

Chapter 115 is a state-funded program that provides direct financial assistance to eligible Massachusetts veterans and their families who are facing financial hardship. Benefits may cover essential needs, including:

• Daily living expenses

• Medical and dental costs

• Rent and housing support

• Support for dependents

• Homelessness prevention

• Outpatient behavioral health services, including psychiatric care, substance use disorder treatment, and prescription assistance

With the passage of the 2024 HERO Act, Chapter 115 benefits have expanded, ensuring veterans do not lose eligibility due to annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) in state or federal benefits. Additionally, municipalities may now provide direct deposit options for faster and more convenient benefit distribution.

Shared from -> https://www.mass.gov/massvets-veteran-state-financial-benefits?

Franklin TV: "Veterans' Call: Tune it out" episode (video)

Franklin's Veterans Service Officer Shannon Nisbett hosts this "Veterans' Call: Tune it out" episode

Video link ->  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wR-U0WMAF1M

Franklin TV: "Veterans' Call: Tune it out" episode (video)

Fallen Heroes' Remembrance Ceremonies on Town Common: January - March 2025

Franklin Fallen Heroes' Upcoming Remembrance Ceremonies

In honor of the 45 Franklin Veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, remembrance ceremonies are held on the anniversary of their KIA date. 

The ceremonies are led by members of the American Legion Post 75 and VFW Post 3402 and are held at 9:00 AM on the Veterans Memorial Walkway on the Franklin Town Common. 

Family members, friends and members of the community are all welcome to attend. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be postponed to the following day.

• January 26 – William O. Martello - WWII
• February 18 – Alan W. Willard - Vietnam
• February 22 – James P. Murray - WWI
• February 24 – David Laughlan III - WWII
• February 26 – Richard L. Desper - Vietnam
• March 10 – Marshall E. Rollins - WWII
• March 10 – John A. Schur - WWII
• March 18 – Elton E. Ekstrom - WWII
• March 30 – W. Franklin Lynch - WWI

Franklin TV has recorded each of the ceremonies. You can view the archive on YouTube ->   https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbAODFjFPJ0zOqXRuHZ5-_LPf6UwmBNSA

You can also find the collection -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/07/fallen-hero-recognition-ceremonies-for.html

Fallen Heroes' Remembrance Ceremonies on Town Common: January - March 2025

Fallen Hero Recognition: Emilio Dadario, October 10, 2024 - 9 AM

Memorial event today (10/10/24) at 9 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor Emilio Dadario. 

The brief program will include  

• the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day 
• the playing of Taps 
• a salute from those present
• a reading of whatever history  may be available for that veteran  

This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

The program is conducted on the Franklin Town Common along the Veterans Walkway by the granite column of the individual being remembered on the day of their recorded passing.

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Emilio Dadario, Private, US Army,  WWI

Emilio Daddario was born in Ofena, Italy in 1895 of Mr. & Mrs. Dominico Daddario. He lived in Franklin for about 17 years before he answered the call to defend his new nation.

He entered the service on September 20, 1917, and was assigned to Company F, 302nd Infantry Regiment, 76th Division, and shipped overseas on March 12, 1918.

Among other responsibilities, Emilio was the company bugler, a duty of which he was very proud.

On the battlefield, he served in Company K, 28th Infantry, 1st Division and was killed on this date in 1918.

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For the full published series of Fallen Heroes you can visit this link
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/franklin-fallen-heroes-series.html

Photo album of the Fallen Hero pillars along the Veterans Walkway

https://photos.app.goo.gl/oRGdmq9krLNEBnjJ7

The video series of recognition ceremonies for 2024 (YTD) 

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/07/fallen-hero-recognition-ceremonies-for.html

Fallen Hero Recognition

Fallen Hero Recognition: Edward L. Grant - Oct 5, 2024 - 9 AM

Memorial event today (10/05/24) at 9 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor Edward L. Grant. 

This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history  may be available for that veteran.  This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

Edward L. Grant, Captain U.S. Army  WWI

Edward Leslie Grant was born May 21, 1883, in Franklin of Mr. & Mrs. G.H. Grant. He graduated from Franklin public schools, later going to Dean Academy where he distinguished himself in baseball. 

After graduation in 1902, he studied law at Harvard University, attaining his Law Degree, and played professional baseball during the summers. With Jersey City in 1906 he led the Eastern League with a .322 average. Eddie enjoyed his finest season in 1909, batting .269 as Philadelphia's leadoff hitter and finishing second in the National League with 170 hits.

Before a double-header against the Giants that year, he supposedly found a domino with 7 white spots. As the story goes, in joking with his teammates that the domino was an omen, that he would have seven hits that day. Eddie went 5 for 5 against Christy Matthewson in the first game, and batted safely in his first two at bats in the night cap. The 7 consecutive hits are believed to be a National League record.

After playing for the Philadelphia Nationals, Cinnicinati Reds, and finally, the NY Giants, he decided to retire in 1916 when he was 32 years old. He intended to develop his Boston law practice. This lasted only about a year. When the United States declared war on Germany on April 6, 1917, be became the major leaguer to enlist.

After 4 months of training in New York, he was commissioned as Captain of Company H of the 307th Infantry Regiment and trained at Camp Upton on Long Island with the troops he would lead.

Arriving in France as part of the American Expeditionary Force, Grant's division saw some combat before being assigned to the Meuse-Argonne offensive, the great final American drive of the war.

On October 2, 1918, the 307th Regiment launched an attack on the the Argonne forest, a rugged heavily wooded area with thick underbrush, deep ravines and marshes. His regiment was part of the command trying to rescue Whittlesey's Lost Battalion.

On October 5th, Eddie Grant was exhausted. He hadn't slept since the beginning of the offensive, and some fellow officers noticed him sitting on a stump with a cup of coffee in front of him, too weak to lift it.

One of his troops, a former policeman on the Polo Grounds in NY remembered the following:

"On the morning the relief was affected, Eddie was dog-tired, but he stepped off at the head of his outfit. He staggered from weakness, and he was suffering from bronchitis, but he wouldn't go to the hospital until he was relieved. He stepped off at the head of his company, marching with his head up. On the was through the forest, fighting at every step, Grant came across stretcher bearers, carrying his commander Major Jay who had been wounded. Jay called to Grant to "take command of the battalion." Eddie was one of the few officers left. The Major had hardly spoken those words when a shell came through the trees dropping 2 of Grant's lieutenants. While ordering his men to take cover, he called for more stretcher bearers for his lieutenants. He was calling and waving his hands when a shell struck him. It was a direct hit. The remaining officers and men of the company said Eddie's conduct during the battle was marvelous. He never slept, always moving forward."

Today he is remembered as the first and most prominent major leaguer to be killed in combat in WWI.

He was buried near where he fell and later removed to the Romagne Cemetery where he rests today.

A monument in Grant's honor was unveiled at the Polo Grounds on Memorial Day in 1921, the baseball field at Dean bears his name as does Franklin's American Legion Post.

Edward L Grant was one of Franklin's most worthy sons, winning honor for himself, his unit, his country, and reflecting credit on the town of his birth.

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For the full published series of Fallen Heroes you can visit this link
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/franklin-fallen-heroes-series.html

Photo album of the Fallen Hero pillars along the Veterans Walkway

https://photos.app.goo.gl/oRGdmq9krLNEBnjJ7

The video series of recognition ceremonies for 2024 (YTD) 

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/07/fallen-hero-recognition-ceremonies-for.html

Fallen Hero Recognition

Reminder: Franklin Fallen Heroes’ Upcoming Remembrance Ceremonies

In honor of the 45 Franklin Veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, remembrance ceremonies are held on the anniversary of their KIA date. The ceremonies are led by members of the American Legion Post 75 and VFW Post 3402 and are held at 9:00 AM on the Veterans Memorial Walkway on the Franklin Town Common. Family members, friends and members of the community are all welcome to attend.

The Edward L. Grant American Legion Post 75 was named in honor of Fallen Hero Edward L. Grant, who was born and raised in Franklin. Grant attended Dean Academy (now Dean College) for one year and received undergraduate and law degrees from Harvard University. He was an attorney and major league baseball player, and one of the first men to enlist in the Army in WWI. American Legion Post 75 members are invited to attend Edward Grant’s remembrance ceremony on Saturday, October 5. 

October 

October 5 – Edward L. Grant – WWI

October 6 – Shane Cabino – Iraq

October 10 – Emilio Daddario – WWI

November

November 6 – Jay Stone Davis – WWI

November 7 – Lawrence J. Clark – WWI

November 11 – Daniel E. McCahill - WWII

November 30 – Robert L. Cummings – WWII

December 

December 6 – Harry R. Bean – Korea

December 28 – Charles E. Mason - WWII

For the full published series of Fallen Heroes you can visit this link
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/franklin-fallen-heroes-series.html

Photo album of the Fallen Hero pillars along the Veterans Walkway

https://photos.app.goo.gl/oRGdmq9krLNEBnjJ7

The video series of recognition ceremonies for 2024 (YTD) 

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/07/fallen-hero-recognition-ceremonies-for.html

Fallen Hero Recognition earlier this year

Fallen Hero Recognition: Frank J. Smith - Sep 25, 2024, 9 AM

Memorial event today (9/25/24) at 9 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor Frank J. Smith, Pvt. U S Army, WWI.   

This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history  may be available for that veteran.  This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

Fallen Hero: Frank J. Smith, Pvt. U S Army, WWI

Frank Smith was inducted into the Army on 22 July 1918, into the 21st Company, 6th Training Battalion.

He then was transferred to Company A, 42nd Infantry on 121 August 1918 at Camp Devens. 

Pvt. Smith died of disease, probably the Flu Epidemic, on this date 1918.

------------------ 

For the full published series of Fallen Heroes you can visit this link
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/franklin-fallen-heroes-series.html

Photo album of the Fallen Hero pillars along the Veterans Walkway

https://photos.app.goo.gl/oRGdmq9krLNEBnjJ7

The video series of recognition ceremonies for 2024 (YTD) 

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/07/fallen-hero-recognition-ceremonies-for.html

Fallen Hero Recognition

2 Fallen Hero Recognitions Today: Garron & Mucciarone - Sep 21, 2024, 9 AM

Memorial event today (9/21/24) at 9 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor Lawrence E. Garron and Alfred L. Mucciarone. 

This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history  may be available for that veteran.  This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

Fallen Hero: Lance Corporal Lawrence E. Garron

Lance Corporal Lawrence E. Garron was born on September 27, 1948, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence E. Garron Sr. Lawrence lived with his parents and a sister at 1295 Pond St., went to grade schools in Franklin and then went to Boston Trade High School from which he was graduated in 1967.  

Corporal Garron enlisted in the Marine Corps in May of 1967 and had served overseas for 10 months. During his tour of duty in June of 1968, Cpl. Garron had been wounded and was hospitalized for eight weeks in Saigon from shrapnel wounds in the leg, for which he received the Purple Heart.  

Cpl. Garron later returned to- active duty where he became a casualty on September 21, 1968 when he was one of eight marines in a platoon of 15 men killed in the explosion of a mine while on patrol in Quang Nam province, Vietnam.   

Lance Corporal Lawrence Garron Jr. was 19 years old at the time of his death in Vietnam.

Posted previously -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/11/fallen-hero-lance-corporal-lawrence-e.html

Fallen Hero: Pvt. Alfred L. Mucciarone, U. S. Army,  WWI

Born in Italy, son Accenzia (Bertino) and Mariannino Mucciarone, he came to Franklin as a child. After living here for 17 years, he entered the service on September 20, 1917 and was assigned to Company F, 302 Infantry Battalion of the 76th Division, and later transferred to Company A 306th Machine Gun Battalion of the 77th Division. He went overseas on April 13, 1918

With this group, he became mortally wounded, during the Ouse - Aisne Offensive, and died at Base Hospital #41.

Franklin Honored this hero by naming a Town Square after him.

He was awarded the Purple Heart posthumously in 1967, and the award was presented to his brother, Elio.

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For the full published series of Fallen Heroes you can visit this link
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/franklin-fallen-heroes-series.html

Photo album of the Fallen Hero pillars along the Veterans Walkway

https://photos.app.goo.gl/oRGdmq9krLNEBnjJ7

The video series of recognition ceremonies for 2024 (YTD) 

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/07/fallen-hero-recognition-ceremonies-for.html

Fallen Hero Recognition

Fallen Hero Recognition: Levi Pieri - Sep 18, 2024, 9 AM

Memorial event today (9/18/24) at 9 AM on the Town Common Veterans Walkway to honor Private Levi Pieri, WWI. 

This program will include the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day, the playing of Taps, a salute from those present, and a reading of whatever history  may be available for that veteran.  This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

Levi Pieri, Pvt US Army, WWI

Little is known of Pvt. Pieri. He was inducted 31 Aug 1918, and served with 33rd Company, 9th Training Battalion. It appears that while moving through training at Camp Devens, Levi contracted a disease, most likely the world-wide outbreak of flu and passed on this date Sep 18, 1918, while only having served less than 3 weeks.

----------------

For the full published series of Fallen Heroes you can visit this link
http://www.franklinmatters.org/2013/08/franklin-fallen-heroes-series.html

Photo album of the Fallen Hero pillars along the Veterans Walkway

https://photos.app.goo.gl/oRGdmq9krLNEBnjJ7

The video series of recognition ceremonies for 2024 (YTD) 

https://www.franklinmatters.org/2024/07/fallen-hero-recognition-ceremonies-for.html

Fallen Hero Recognition earlier this year

Franklin Veterans - Brick Order Deadline for November Installation is September 20

Engraved Veterans' Bricks Make Great Holiday Gifts

The deadline for ordering engraved bricks for the November 2024 installation on the Veterans Memorial Walkway on the Franklin Town Common is September 20. 

Bricks are $100 each and order forms are available in the Senior Center and Town Hall lobbies and on the Veterans Services web page: https://www.franklinma.gov/veterans-services

Bricks are installed in May and November and frameable certificates are sent to the purchaser after the installation. Bricks can be ordered for any current U.S. Service Member or Veteran. There are currently 1,889 engraved bricks on the Walkway. Bricks will be personalized until all blank bricks have been engraved. 

Thank you to all who have supported the Veterans Memorial Walkway project. For more information, call the Veterans' Services Office at: (508) 613-1315.

Order form ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/brick_order_form_with_shannons_name.pdf

Brick Order Deadline for November Installation

Women Veterans Self-Care Workshop - Sep 13

Women Veterans Self-Care Workshop: Healing Modalities

Calling all Women Veterans!

Women Veterans Self-Care Workshop

Join us for a free Self-Care Workshop in Franklin on Fri 13 Sept (12 noon) at the Franklin Senior Center.

The workshop will be facilitated by the new EOVS Program Director for the Women Veterans Network (WVN), Jessica Frost D.M.  

Lunch will be provided.  RSVP to snisbett@franklinma.gov

Shared from -> https://www.franklinma.gov/veterans-services/news/women-veterans-self-care-workshop-healing-modalities

Fallen Hero Recognition Ceremonies for 2024 (video)

Franklin’s Veterans’ organizations, the Edward L. Grant American Legion Post 75, and the Veteran’s of Foreign Wars Post 3402, under the auspices of the Town’s Veterans Council, have developed a program to further honor those who died for our nation, to ensure they are remembered, and their stories are kept alive.

The brief program will include  

• the placing of a Memorial Wreath for the day 
• the playing of Taps 
• a salute from those present
• a reading of whatever history  may be available for that veteran  

This is a way of keeping the memory of that veteran alive.

The program is conducted on the Franklin Town Common along the Veterans Walkway by the granite column of the individual being remembered on the day of their recorded passing.

Franklin TV has been recording each of the recognition ceremonies and they can all be found here (the most recent on top, the earlier in 2024 are found as you scroll down)

There is also a playlist for the Franklin TV videos ->    https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbAODFjFPJ0zOqXRuHZ5-_LPf6UwmBNSA

Video of the set for #7 -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nV5dN9ta9Hs

Video of the set for #6 ->  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJyxuhgHiuI

Video of the set for #5 -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6UaM6y8eFsw

Video of the set for #4 -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tP9ghB7K5WA

 

Video of the set for #3 -> https://youtu.be/GpFAlD8_1Js?si=ZwEzePScne58Ugzt

Video of the set for #2 ->  https://youtu.be/SbC8N5K7jgQ?si=-LsDoX6pst94mLLS

Video of the set for #1 ->  https://youtu.be/Fo3eJGInVXU?si=TBQeb-sPxUa96XfF

 Honoring Our Franklin Veterans Who Died In Service to Our Country

Veterans Memorial Walkway Brick Orders for installation Memorial Day 2024 due by April 12, 2024

The next engraved brick installation on the Veterans Memorial Walkway is scheduled for May to coincide with Memorial Day. Engraved bricks make great gifts for Mother's Day, Father's Day and birthdays for U.S. Veterans or current Military Service Members. 

The deadline for ordering bricks is April 12. Order forms are available in the Town Hall and Senior Center lobbies as well as on the Veterans' Services page on the Town website ->   https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/brick_order_form_with_shannons_name.pdf

Thank you to all who have supported the Walkway project. 

Veterans Memorial Walkway Brick Orders for installation Memorial Day 2024 due by April 12, 2024

Annual Report Of The Veterans' Services Office: FY 2023 Report

The Veterans' Services Office (VSO) serves Veterans and their dependents in recognition of their service to our country. Our mission is to ensure Franklin Veterans can access the local, state, and federal benefits available to them. We also strive to foster camaraderie and community engagement among our Veterans. Responsibilities of the VSO include, but are not limited to, dispensing benefits under MGL Chapter ll5, assistance with filing VA claims and applying for VA Health Care, administering the Franklin Municipal Veterans' Assistance Fund and Veterans' Gift Fund, managing the Veterans' Property Tax Work-Off Program, providing information about property tax exemptions for disabled Veterans, and making referrals to community agencies for housing, employment, mental health, eldercare, and transportation services. We work with our Veterans' Council, Town departments, and community partners to host numerous patriotic and social events throughout the year.

As our Veterans and their dependents age, there are more demands for benefits provided by the Commonwealth's Department of Veterans' Services and the U. S. Department of Veterans' Affairs. It is important that Veterans and surviving spouses identify themselves on the town census. This information enables the VSO to identify the number of Veterans living in Franklin and the services available to them. We encourage all Veterans and their surviving spouses to contact the VSO.

The VSO is always willing to attend school events and other community events to speak about Veterans, Veterans' benefits, the military experience or to support a patriotic event. We invite other Veterans to attend such events as well. We also work with Boy and Girl Scout groups and students who are interested in community service projects when Veteran-related projects are available.

Franklin Veterans' Council

Established in 20l5, the Franklin Veterans' Council meets on the third Thursday of the month at 7:00 pm, at the Franklin Senior Center. Dates, times and meeting locations are posted on the Veterans' Services web page. All Veterans and any Franklin resident or organization interested in Veterans' activities are welcome to attend. This group serves as a communications outlet for Veteran and military- related events and activities in the community as well as an opportunity for Veterans to obtain information about state and federal benefits and changes. The Council is chaired by the VSO.

Veterans Memorial Walkway

Families continue to honor their U.S. Veterans and active duty family members by purchasing engraved bricks for the Memorial Walkway on the Town Common. Bricks are installed on the Walkway prior to Memorial Day and Veterans' Day each year. The administrative processing of the brick orders and installation is handled by the Veterans' Services Office. Brick order forms are available in the Town Hall and Senior Center lobbies and on the Veterans' Services page on the Town website. Thank you to all who have supported this project by honoring their Veteran with an engraved brick. To date, l849 engraved bricks have been purchased and installed on the Veterans Memorial Walkway. Bricks will be sold until all blank bricks on the Walkway have been engraved.

Monument Restoration

Four War Monuments were cleaned and restored this year, including the World War I Monument, the Civil War Statue, the Spanish-American War Monument, and the Persian Gulf War Monument.

Veterans Coffee Socials

Attendance at the monthly Veterans coffee socials continues to grow as an opportunity for Veterans to have a cup of coffee (tea, water, pastries) together and to socialize with other Veterans. The socials are held the first Wednesday of the month at l0:00 a.m. at the Senior Center. The VSO provides updates on benefits and activities and invites guest speakers to discuss Veteran-related topics several times a year. Franklin Veteran Bob Crowley gave a brief discussion about his Honor Flight experience in November. In April, we celebrated the fourth anniversary of our monthly coffee socials. We presented Starbucks' associates with a certificate of appreciation for their ongoing support of Veterans and for catering our coffee socials for the last four years at no charge.

Purple Heart Community

Franklin is a Purple Heart Community. This designation demonstrates that our Town recognizes and honors Franklin service members who received the Purple Heart award for being wounded or killed in enemy combat. Our office has created a registry of Franklin residents who are Purple Heart recipients. We will recognize those recipients each year. In August 2022, l4 Franklin Purple Heart recipients and their families were recognized at the Veterans Coffee Social. Signs have been installed at the Town's entry points, designating Franklin as a Purple Heart Community. If you or a family member from Franklin are a Purple Heart recipient, please contact our office.

Quilt of Valor Awards

Since its inception in 2003, the mission of the Quilts of Valor Foundation is to "cover Service Members and Veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor." To date, over 300,000 quilts have been awarded to Service Members and Veterans nationwide. This past year, Quilts of Valor were awarded to Franklin Veterans living at the Enclave of Franklin Assisted Living Community, Magnolia Heights Independent Living Community, Cedarwood Gardens Health and Rehabilitation Center, and at Veterans' private homes. Thus far, Quilts of Valor have been awarded to 48 Franklin Veterans by the Massachusetts Quilts of Valor State Coordinator Theresa Perreault and her assistants.

Veterans' Day Program

On November 11, 2022, Franklin Elks Lodge #2l36 hosted the annual Veterans' Day Luncheon. With l20 guests in attendance, the featured speaker was Army Veteran and Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient Robert Gardner. American Legion Post 75 Chaplain Robert Markunis offered the invocation. The FHS chorus provided musical interludes during the luncheon and members of the American Legion provided an Honor Guard and posted the colors. VSO Shannon Nisbett made remarks about why we celebrate Veterans' Day and thanked all Veterans in attendance for their service and sacrifices. She highlighted activities and programs supported by American Legion Post 75 and VFW Post 3402 and encouraged attendees to consider joining these organizations to continue the great work they do on behalf of Veterans. Navy Veteran Richard Hynes explained that the POW-MIA table, which was on exhibit, is meant to remind us about those U.S. service members still not accounted for. The luncheon was attended by state and local officials including State Rep. Jeffrey Roy, Town Administrator Jamie Hellen and members of the Franklin Town Council. Chris Flynn, of Franklin TV, videotaped the luncheon which later aired on Franklin's All Access Community TV. Special thanks to the Franklin Elks for the delicious luncheon and for their continued support of Veterans' activities and programs throughout the year.

Memorial Day Breakfast

Sponsored by the Friends of Franklin Elders (FOFE), the annual Memorial Day Breakfast was held on May 26, 2023 at the Senior Center. Students from Tri- County Regional Vocational Technical School's culinary department, under the direction of instructor Nancy Haney, prepared and served the breakfast. Chaplain Bob Markunis of American Legion Post 75 offered the invocation. VSO Shannon Nisbett emceed the event and Veteran Advocate and Community Educator Rose Turco was the featured speaker. Remarks were given by State Rep. Jeff Roy and State Senator Rebecca Rausch. Ernest Carruthers, Quartermaster at the VFW Post 3402, recognized Larry Bederian, the outgoing VFW Commander, and thanked him for his many years of service in that position. The FHS chorus, under the direction of Mary Kate Pezzillo, provided musical interludes and FHS student Brady Devlin performed "Taps" on the bugle. Members of the American Legion Post 75 provided an Honor Guard and posted the colors. Navy Veteran and Memorial Day Parade Co- Chairman Richard Hynes explained the significance of the POW-MIA table, which was on display. Parade Co-Chairman and Navy Veteran Ernest Carruthers provided details about the upcoming parade. Thank you to Kathy and Joe Lesica for making the beautiful table centerpieces and to Chris Flynn of Franklin TV for videotaping the event, the Starbucks East Central Street Team for providing coffee, and all the guest speakers and volunteers who made this event possible.

Parade and Ceremony

The Memorial Day parade was held on May 29, 2023. Franklin resident and Veteran advocate Mark Ellis was selected as the Grand Marshal of this year's parade and made remarks at the ceremony that followed the parade. Along the parade route, local Boy and Girl Scouts placed memorial wreaths (made by the Girl Scouts) at Dean College, Union Street, and St. Mary's cemeteries and at the war memorials on the Plaza. Bands from Franklin High School, Remington, Annie Sullivan and Horace Mann middle schools and Benjamin Franklin Classical Charter Public School marched and played patriotic songs in the parade. American Legion Post 75 provided an Honor Guard and Rifle Team, VFW Post 3402 and Knights of Columbus Council l847 provided Honor Guards, the Franklin Fire Department provided an Honor Guard and fire engines for the parade, and the Franklin Police Department provided a police detail along the parade route. The Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School ROTC, along with instructor Major Travis Bowser of Franklin, marched in the parade as well as local Scout groups. Rev. Dr. Jacob Juncker, Brother Phil Bennallack and Father Brian Manning participated in the presentation of honors at Dean College, Union Street Cemetery and St. Mary's Cemetery along the parade route.

Reverend Doreen Oughton offered the invocation and benediction and Marine Veteran Joe Collins led the Pledge of Allegiance at the Memorial Day ceremony. American Legion Commander John Milot read the names of Franklin Veterans who had passed since last Memorial Day. Outgoing VFW Post 3402 Commander Larry Bederian and incoming Commander Ernest Carruthers, along with Marine Veteran Dawn Anderson, also participated in the Honor Roll presentation at the ceremony. The FHS band, under the direction of Leighann Rudsit, performed the National Anthem, and FHS buglers Brady Devlin and Peter Bryan played "Taps."

Many thanks to Chris Flynn and Chris Leverone of Franklin TV for providing media coverage of our Memorial Day events. Thank you to Allegra Printing for donating the Grand Marshal parade banner again this year.

Special thanks to parade committee members, Lt. Eric Zimmerman of the Franklin Police department, Battalion Chief Tom Carlucci of the Franklin Fire Department, Richard Hynes and Ernest Carruthers, Parade Co-Chairs, Camille Napier Bernstein, Gerry Bradie, Frank Coughlin, John Hefele, Chaplain Bob Markunis, John Milot, Debra Martin, Shannon Nisbett, Rose Turco, Lester Quan and the many volunteers who provided support on Memorial Day. Thank you to our parade drivers, the Franklin Public Works and Facilities departments and the Franklin Garden Club members for their assistance, support and beautification of the Town Common.

Veterans Call

"Veterans Call" is a TV program for and about Veterans hosted by the VSO and airs on Franklin's All Access Community TV station. This year's programs have featured National Service Officers from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services, Matt Ching and Tom Ryan, MA Veterans' Bonus Manager, Steve Croteau, American Legion Post 75 Commander John Milot, and VFW Post 3402 Quartermaster Ernest Carruthers.  

Find Veterans Call -> https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbAODFjFPJ0wytXIB_AExm_qUn2WyA2nW

Chair of Honor

The Chair of Honor, which commemorates those who served in the U.S. military but have not returned home, resides at the Franklin Senior Center. The empty chair is displayed at the Memorial Day Breakfast and other Veterans' events as a reminder of the service and sacrifices made by prisoners of war or those still missing in action. As of May 2023, there are more than 8l,000 American troops still unaccounted for.

Display Case at the Town Hall

Our office maintains the Veterans' display case in the Town Hall lobby. The displays focus on Veterans' Day, Memorial Day and other Veteran-centric historical events, as well as feature Veterans and Veterans-related projects in our community. The current display highlights the War Monuments Restoration Project on the Town Common.

Other Events and Activities

In August 2022, Elks Lodge #2l36 sponsored a Dinner-Dance fundraiser with all proceeds from ticket sales and raffles going to the War Monuments Restoration Project. Thank you to Mark Ellis and the Elks Lodge #2l36 membership for their ongoing support of Franklin Veterans' activities and events.

On December 9, 2022, our office hosted a resume building workshop with New England Center and Home for Veterans at the Senior Center.

Also in December, our office, along with the help of Franklin Veterans and families, decorated a Veterans' Holiday Tree for the Senior Center's first annual Winter Wonderland event. Our beautiful live tree was raffled off and was won by a Franklin Veteran.

On February 8, 2023, we hosted a Greater Franklin Virtual Career Fair for Veterans with the MassHire Department of Career Services.

A new Veterans Tax Work-Off program was established in 2022. Like the Senior Tax Work-Off program, Franklin military Veterans (or their surviving spouse) can "work-off" up to $l,500 of their annual real estate tax bill by volunteering their services in a Town department in exchange for an abatement on their property taxes.

"Tune It Out," our learn-to-play-guitar program for Veterans, began in July 202l. Research suggests that active music engagement reduces anxiety, increases relaxation levels and improves overall well-being.

There are currently 15 learners and four volunteer instructors who meet at the Senior Center on Tuesdays from 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. In September 2022, we hosted an Open House to introduce Veterans to the guitar program and in June 2023, we hosted a guitar class pizza party to show our appreciation for the volunteer instructors. We are grateful for the generous donations of guitars and funds we have received from members of the community in support of this program. Veterans may call the VSO to sign up for classes.

We are continuing our Buddy Check program with the help of a Veteran volunteer. With their permission, we call Veterans and Veterans' widows or widowers either weekly or monthly to check in on them and ask if we can be of any help. Many of our Veterans live alone and appreciate hearing a friendly voice on the phone. Please contact our office if you are a Veteran who would like to be included in our Buddy Check program

 

Community Support

Veterans' Services thanks these faithful supporters:

The Friends of Franklin Elders (FOFE) for their sponsorship and support of Veterans' events.

The Franklin Senior Center staff for their daily support of the Veterans' Services Office.

The many departments in the Town of Franklin that support our Veterans' programs. It takes a team effort to accomplish all that we do.

Franklin Elks Lodge #2l36 for their continued support of Franklin Veterans including the sponsorship of the Veterans' Day Luncheon and the Veterans' fuel assistance program. In addition to fundraisers, Elks Lodge #2l36 conducts activities during the year that support Veterans in local VA medical centers and other facilities.

American Legion Edward L. Grant Post 75 Commander John Milot and Legion members for their support of local Veterans, their leadership in our Veterans' Day and Memorial Day events, and for volunteering their time to spruce up Veterans' gravesites at St. Mary's cemetery, led by John Hefele.

VFW Post 3402 and newly appointed Post Commander Ernest Carruthers for co-chairing the 2023 Memorial Day Parade, hosting the parade committee luncheon following the Memorial Day Parade, and their ongoing support and commitment to Franklin's Veterans and Veterans-related events.

Starbucks, East Central Street, for generously catering our monthly Coffee Socials and other Veterans' events.

Franklin Matters, Franklin Observer and Franklin Local Town News for their coverage of Franklin Veterans' events and activities.

The Franklin Garden Club for the beautification, care and maintenance of the Veterans' Memorial on the Town Common.

Community volunteers, including Boy and Girl Scouts, who assist our office with activities and events throughout the year.

Franklin Public Schools' Music department for their talent and support at various Veterans' events.

The citizens of Franklin for their support of our Veterans and active duty service members.

If you are a Veteran or a family member of a Veteran and have a question or need any assistance, please contact our office.

Although, federal and state definitions of Veterans are very specific as to time and component served for qualification for benefits, I hold to this definition of a Veteran:

A Veteran is someone - whether active duty, retired, National Guard or Reserve, served one day or twenty years - who at one point in their life wrote a blank check made payable to the Government of the United States of America for an amount of "up to and including my life."

Thank you for your service.

I am honored to serve Franklin's Veterans and their families.

Respectfully submitted, 

Shannon Nisbett 

Veterans' Service Officer

The full Town of Franklin FY 2023 Annual Report can be found online

https://www.franklinma.gov/sites/g/files/vyhlif10036/f/uploads/annual_report_2023_0.pdf

Annual Report Of The Veterans' Services Office: FY 2023 Report