Norton Veteran Named Patriots Fan of the Year

Gary Cameron served his country faithfully as a combat engineer in the Marines during Vietnam, even earning the Purple Heart when he was wounded in combat. Today, the 65-year-old remains dedicated to his fellow members of the military – and that’s why he’s being recognized at the Patriots Fan of the Year.

The Patriots Fan of the Year, presented by Bank of America, honors the fan or fans that best represent the spirit of the Patriots in the community. Since the inception of the award in 1987, the New England Patriots have presented 27 individuals with the Joseph R. Mastrangelo Memorial Trophy. Cameron was picked from three semi-finalists and honored on the field during the Patriots’ final home game on Dec. 28.

Cameron, who was nominated for the award by his son Jim, runs VFW Post 8049 in Norton. He organizes the sending of care packages and volunteers at the local VA hospital. He helps to organize the town’s Memorial and Veterans’ day parades and works to deliver turkeys to military families around the holidays.

Cameron has also given back to his hometown. A member of the Norton’s Founders Day Committee, he’s helped out with fundraising for the town’s annual picnic. He also played a major role in the town’s 300th birthday celebration.

He is, of course, also a devoted Pats fan, eager to show off his Pat Patriot tattoo for anyone who asks. He’s been a season ticket holder for over 30 years. He’s been to several Super Bowls and AFC Championship games throughout the years, a true fan through the good times and the bad.

Photo caption: Jim Cameron, Patriots owner Bob Kraft, Bank of America Massachusetts President Bob Gallery, 2014 Fan of the Year honoree Gary Cameron, Tom Cameron, former Patriot Andre Tippett and Olivia Mastrangelo at the Fan of the Year trophy presentation during the Patriots game against the Buffalo Bills on Dec. 28, 2014. (Photo courtesy of Patriots/David Silverman)