Massachusetts National Guard marks 380th birthday; dozens of officers commissioned, soldier honored for heroism
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Summary
At a ceremony at the State House, Governor Maura Healey administered oaths to newly commissioned officers, the Army awarded the Soldier's Medal to Staff Sergeant Thomas Beebe for actions during a September 13, 2023 shelter fire in Sutton, and marksmanship and Air Guard awards were presented.
The Massachusetts National Guard celebrated its 380th birthday at the State House in Memorial Hall with officer commissions, awards and ceremonial honors.
Governor Maura Healey administered the officer's oath to newly commissioned and ascending officers, after an emcee read the names of dozens of honorees including First Lieutenant Nathaniel Allen, Second Lieutenant Michael Anderson and Captain Jessica Barry. The ceremony recognized units that trace their lineage to 1636 and emphasized the Guard—s community role.
The United States Army and the Massachusetts National Guard presented the Soldier's Medal to Staff Sergeant Thomas Beebe for heroism on Sept. 13, 2023. According to the citation read at the ceremony, Staff Sergeant Beebe responded to a fire at the Red Roof Inn in Sutton, which was serving as a supplemental shelter; he helped evacuate civilians and reentered a smoke-filled room to assist his supervisor to safety.
State leaders also presented the Governor's 20 award to top pistol and rifle marksmen and recognized Air National Guard honorees. The Air National Guard NCO of the Year (Technical Sergeant Matthew Neap) and Airman of the Year (Senior Airman Julia Ahasi) were cited for maintenance, readiness and public-affairs work that supported readiness and training across the region.
Officials invited newly commissioned officers and Governor's 20 recipients to a group photograph on the Grand Staircase and closed the ceremony with a ceremonial cake cutting and refreshments. The event combined historical remarks, personnel honors and the governor—s policy announcement earlier in the program.
