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Lowell Veterans Commission reviews Memorial Day turnout, discusses ‘Veteran of the Year’ recognition and a resolution for a fallen veteran
Summary
At its June meeting the commission reviewed the Memorial Day event, discussed improving facilities and scheduling for future ceremonies, debated a proposal for a ‘Veteran of the Year’ recognition program, and moved to put forward a resolution honoring a recently deceased veteran; the record does not show an official roll-call vote.
The Lowell Veterans Commission used its June meeting to recap Memorial Day activities, discuss veterans-recognition plans and to propose a formal resolution honoring a recently deceased local veteran.
Acting Chair Paul Paradise led the session’s discussion of Memorial Day, saying turnout was strong despite poor weather and praising the city’s parks department and volunteer efforts. Commissioners flagged logistical needs for future events — including portable restroom access at Veterans Park — and discussed moving the ceremony date closer to Memorial Day itself to avoid conflicts with holiday travel.
Commissioner Jean Peoples proposed creating a "Veteran of the Year" recognition; members discussed whether the award should be monthly or quarterly and recommended developing written rules. Paradise and other commissioners said they would work with Eric Lamash, the city’s veteran liaison, and local veterans’ groups (DAV, VFW and similar organizations) to formalize criteria and an award process.
During the meeting a commissioner introduced a resolution to honor a recently deceased veteran. The commission observed a moment of silence for the veteran and members discussed options for a small public recognition in coordination with the veteran’s family. The transcript does not record a roll-call or final vote on the resolution; commissioners proceeded to discuss follow-up logistics.
Commissioners also confirmed the commission will be on hiatus until September and that regular meetings will resume on the second Wednesday of each month at 5 p.m. They asked the city to circulate rules for applying to serve on the commission and said they hope to fill vacancies before the fall.
