Hamden Mourns Fred McCarthy; Tireless Veterans Advocate

HAMDEN, CT — The Hamden community is mourning the recent death of Fred McCarthy, who was a tireless advocate for veterans and president of the Friends of Brooksvale Park organization.

McCarthy was a U.S. Army veteran who served during the Vietnam War era and was an original member of Hamden's Veterans Commission when it was founded 25 years ago.

Read more about McCarthy from the In Memoriam written by Kirsten Walker below:

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that Veteran Fred McCarthy, beloved husband, caring father and loyal friend to so many has passed on.

McCarthy lived and raised his family in Hamden for more than 35 years. He served with the United States Army during the Vietnam era in the 2nd Infantry Division, 23rd Infantry Regiment. After serving his country, he worked as a crane operator, operating engineer and an independent truck driver. He was often found sharing his years of experience with anyone who needed a helping hand and was not afraid to share his opinion on what needed to be done and how to do it the right way.

A tireless veterans’ advocate, McCarthy helped many ailing WWII veterans get benefits their government promised. He was very involved in fundraising for the Fisher House at the West Haven VA Hospital. He was a founding member of Hamden’s Veterans Commission and Senior Vice-Commander of American Legion Post #88. McCarthy was also instrumental in getting “Wreaths Across America” and the “Moving Wall” to make a stop in Hamden and helped dedicate the “Veterans’ Auditorium” at the Hamden Middle School.

When the Friends of Brooksvale Park was in need of new leadership and a new animal barn project was in the works, McCarthy rose to the occasion. He became president of the non-profit group which incorporated in 2003 and held that position until his passing. On a daily basis, rain or shine, he oversaw the design and building of the new barn. Often his voice could be heard above that of the masons and framers, guiding them to do things the best way. He so enjoyed watching and chatting with the families as they visited with the animals after the new barn was dedicated in 2014.

Always caring for the park and his community, McCarthy assisted with the annual Friends of Brooksvale events such as the Maple Sugaring program, Wreath Making workshop and Fall Festival Bake Sale. He was constantly advocating for the Park’s needs with Town Officials and the Legislative Council, much to their chagrin at times. No one can ever say he did not care or was not passionate about the things he believed in or set out to do.

There’s an old saying, “His bark is worse than his bite” and many will agree this sometimes applied to McCarthy. Though his gruff exterior often made people wary when they first met him, once a relationship was established a lifetime friendship was formed. His presence will be sorely missed by all.

See also: Fred McCarthy Is an Advocate for Veterans