Medford Renovating Veterans' Memorials Across City

MEDFORD, MA — The renovation of veterans' memorials across Medford is underway, Mayor Stephanie M. Burke announced Monday. The first monument to be restored was the Corporal Daniel Tolland USMC memorial at the intersection of Watervale and Lund Roads in North Medford.

"These monuments, spread across our entire City, are a symbol of sacrifice and to honor those who have so bravely served the United States of America," Burke said in a statement. "I look forward to the restoration of each one."

Ron Karasczkiewicz, an Army veteran and neighbor of the monument, brought this project to the city's attention. Karasczkiewicz has agreed to maintain the property surrounding the monument, which was repaired by USMC veteran and Medford resident John Gautreau of Anytime Construction LLC.

The next memorial to be restored is the World War I monument on Forest Street. Medford was awarded a $50,000 state grant for its refurbishment thanks to the advocacy of State Rep. Paul Donato, city officials said.

"As the son of a World War I Navy veteran, I am both proud and pleased to have secured the $50,000 in funding to restore the World War I memorial on Forest Street," Donato said in a statement. "We must never forget the men and women who sacrificed in service for our nation."

If you have a monument in your neighborhood that needs repair, please reach out to Veterans Director Michael Durham at mdurham@medford-ma.gov.