Dedham, MA – It may have been just one night, but it culminated into more than 230 years of saying thanks, as the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds honored its veterans with the release of its third volume of Notable Land Records titled “We Remembered Our Veterans.”
“There is a lot of history in these halls at the Registry of Deeds, and tonight was a night that we could say thank you to all past, present, and future veterans of Norfolk County. Our Notable Land Record book pays our respect and thanks for the countless contributions and sacrifices of our county veterans from the Revolutionary War to present-day peacekeepers. It also pays tribute to the veteran organizations, veteran agents, and families of veterans.” noted Register O’Donnell.
The evening took on a special significance as Secretary of Veteran Service Jon Santiago, the highest-ranking state veteran’s official in the Commonwealth, spoke about the role of veterans and the sacrifices they make on behalf of our freedoms. Specifically, he talked about the challenges that some veterans have had transitioning back to civilian life. He stated, “I want to serve those, who served us.”
The opening of the ceremonies with the posting of the colors was called by Norwood Veteran Services Director Ted Mulvehill and was performed by the Norfolk County Sheriff’s Honor Guard. The audience was treated to a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by the Norwood High School group, the Madrigals.
Walpole resident and attorney Steven Brady, a 20-year veteran of the United States Army who did two tours of duty in Afghanistan and was awarded the Bronze Star, led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance. He spoke briefly, “As veterans, we all had different jobs……. The one thing we had in common was that a veteran is someone who left their family, their home, and their life.”
Norfolk County Sheriff Patrick McDermott did a memorable version of “God Bless America.” He also spoke about a past generation of McDermott’s, the “seven McDermott Brothers,” all of whom served their country, five during World War II.
Those who attended the event were able to stroll the Registry’s Great Hall and view the fascinating storyboards detailing the history of the various military branches, how a country honors its veterans, and the list of the 20 county veterans who were awarded the Medal of Honor. Attendees of the event were given a free copy of “We Remember Our Veterans.”
The Register was especially honored to have in the crowd Jeanette Rose-Gutshall, a Gold Star wife from Weymouth, who spoke about the Notable Land Records book. “This is a history book. I love that that it tells the story of the United States Presidents born in Norfolk County, and the pictures are terrific.”
if you would like a free copy of the “We Remember Our Veterans” Booklet can contact the Registry of Deeds Customer Service Center via telephone at (781) 461-6101, or email us at registerodonnell@norfolkdeeds.org