By Linus Teutsch ('14)
November 11 is a day to remember all men and women who have put their lives on the line to ensure security for our great nation. Reading resident Robert E. Fitzgerald is one man who did not have to wait for someone else to take the first step in the Vietnam conflict. As a brave eighteen year old from Dorchester, Massachusetts he enlisted in the United States Army and served eight years in active duty that included time in Vietnam.
Bob is proud to have represented his country in a time of conflict. He credits his time in the military with teaching him worthy life lessons. For instance, he learned, “If you’re taught the right way after you make a mistake, you’ll never make that mistake again.” Even at a time when race was a complicated subject he was able to face adversity. “Race didn’t matter when it came to the front line," he said. "No matter who was next to you, he could save your life.”
Bob is thankful for the care Americans have shown towards Veterans Day, but he thinks that society has somewhat tarnished Veterans Day and other days that used to be more respected. Bob remembers that when he was a child ‘Blue Laws” were taken seriously. Blue Laws restricted commercial activity on Sundays and certain holidays. Bob thinks a day like Veterans Day should be committed to honoring the veterans.
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If you would like to honor Bob and other veterans, go to Reading’s annual Veterans Day observance on Monday at 11 AM on the town common.
