Framingham Reps join Legislature to Remember Fallen Service Members

Framingham – Monday, May 29, 2023 – The Massachusetts Legislature is proud to join the rest of the nation to recognize and honor the sacrifices of our fallen service members of the Armed Services. The Memorial Day Holiday allows each of us as Americans, and citizens of the Commonwealth, to reflect on the selflessness and courage of our fallen heroes who have given their lives in defense of our freedom.

Memorial Day, formerly known as Decoration Day, was proclaimed a holiday in 1868 and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Today, we use this solemn day to honor over one million men and women who have died defending our country since 1861.

“Memorial Day is an opportunity to honor those who have given their lives in service to our country and their loved ones,” said Governor Maura Healey. “While we can never fully repay their sacrifice, we show our gratitude by ensuring that Massachusetts is a community of support for military service members, veterans and their families.”

“As we remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our way of life, let us also celebrate their lives and selflessness,” noted Representative Jack Patrick Lewis (Framingham). “Let us all collectively thank the families of the fallen. Your sacrifices began long before that dreaded knock at the door. Thank you for sharing your family members with a grateful nation.”

“Today is a day to honor those who have paid the ultimate price for our freedom,” said Representative Danielle W. Gregoire (Marlborough). “It is fitting that we pay tribute to their memory, their sacrifice and support the families they left behind.”

"As we approach Memorial Day, I reflect on the history of our country and think of those who lost their lives in service to our nation. This weekend, we honor those who have passed and their families” said Representative Kate Donaghue (Westborough).

“The names of so many Framingham residents who made the ultimate sacrifice in the entrance of our own Memorial Building is especially meaningful during this holiday weekend," said Representative Priscilla Sousa (Framingham). “May we continue to remember them, honor them, and hold gratitude in our hearts for their service and sacrifice”

“Memorial Day solemnly reminds us of the price of freedom, achieved through the unwavering dedication and ultimate sacrifice of our service-members," stated Secretary Jon Santiago. "Let us reflect on their contributions, uphold their ideals, and lead with action. The Healey-Driscoll Administration remains steadfast in its commitment to honorably serve veterans, and we look forward to working with Chairs Velis and Cassidy to best serve our military community."

“On Memorial Day, we honor the US servicemen and women who have died protecting this country,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (Quincy). “We thank them and their families’ for their sacrifice, knowing that while we will never be able to repay them, we must never forget their indelible service.”

“Today we remember our fallen heroes and honor their legacy by continuing to uphold the values and freedoms for which they fought,” said Representative Gerry Cassidy, House Chair of the Joint Committee on Veterans & Federal Affairs. “We will never forget their ultimate sacrifice.”

“Those who raise their hand to serve in our armed forces do so knowing full well that they may not return home. Memorial Day is a time to honor the men and women who have made that ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation,” said Senator John Velis, Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Veterans & Federal Affairs. “It is on us – as a Commonwealth – to honor their service, and to recognize the sacrifices of their families as well.”

Flags in the Commonwealth will be flown at half-staff until noon on Memorial Day.

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