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Massachusetts holds first Military Appreciation Day at State House
Summary
State leaders and veterans gathered May 22 in the House Chamber for the inaugural Military Appreciation Day, honoring service members, Gold Star families and veterans while reading hundreds of honorees nominated by state legislators.
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts held its first Military Appreciation Day on May 22 in the historic House Chamber at the State House, bringing together elected officials, military leaders and veterans to honor service and sacrifice.
The event, organized by the Executive Office of Veteran Services, featured remarks from Governor Maura Healey, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, Senate President Karen Spilka, Secretary of the Executive Office of Veteran Services John Santiago, and keynote speaker General Joseph Dunford, along with music from vocalist Michelle Brooks Thompson and a Pledge of Allegiance led by Gold Star family members.
The daylong program aimed to recognize current service members, veterans, caregivers and Gold Star families. "This moment marks the beginning of a new tradition, that pays lasting tribute to those who have served and continue to serve our nation with courage and honor," said Deputy Secretary Andrea Gail Bennett at the program's start. Secretary John Santiago noted the event's timing near Memorial Day and thanked legislative leaders and nonprofit partners for supporting veterans.
Governor Maura Healey said Massachusetts has made veterans a priority at the state level and opened her remarks by condemning antisemitism after a shooting in Washington, D.C. the previous night. "There is no place for antisemitism anywhere in this country," she said. Healey also praised state efforts on veterans housing and other programs, calling the Commonwealth "the number 1 state for veterans." Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll described Massachusetts as a "defense state" with substantial economic ties to federal defense spending and installations.
Keynote speaker General Joseph Dunford praised Massachusetts' statewide programs for veterans and urged continued support for families and those who bear the wounds of war. "We have an enduring responsibility to take care of those veterans and family members who need our support," Dunford said.
As part of the ceremony, honorees nominated by their state senators and representatives stood when their names were read. Organizers requested no applause during the roll call to ensure a uniform recognition for every honoree; many names were read aloud in a continuous list. After the readings, honorees were invited outside the chamber for a group photo and refreshments.
The program concluded with closing remarks that reiterated the event will become an annual observance. Staff on site guided honorees to the designated photo area and the event formally adjourned after the reception invitation.
The event combined ceremonial recognition with public affirmation of continuing policy commitments cited by state leaders. No formal votes or legislative actions took place during the program itself.
