More than a Day Off: Remember Our Veterans

As Veterans Day approaches, it is important to reflect on the service and sacrifices of our veterans, as well as to show our gratitude and support for them. It also reminds me of a night on November 8th last year here at the Norfolk County Registry of Deeds, where we hosted a special event to honor and recognize past, present, and future veterans for their dedication and bravery. It was truly inspiring to hear the patriotic music that filled the air and listen to the different presenters speak about what it means to be a veteran.

The night also marked the release of the Registry's third volume of Notable Land Records titled “We Remembered Our Veterans.” Our Notable Land Records booklet pays our respect and thanks for the countless contributions and sacrifices of Norfolk County veterans from the Revolutionary War to present-day peacekeepers. The booklet features detailed stories of veterans all throughout the 28 communities that make up Norfolk County. These individuals have led remarkable lives: several are Medal of Honor recipients; one was an experimental aircraft pilot; another served in three wars. The booklet outlines a history of the military branches as well as the four United States Presidents born in Norfolk County who served as commander-in-chief.

The opening of the ceremonies on that night started with the posting of the colors called by Norwood Veteran Services Director Ted Mulvehill and was performed by the Norfolk County Sheriff’s Honor Guard. The Norwood High School group, the Madrigals, treated the audience to a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem.

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.”

The evening took on special significance as Veterans’ Services Secretary Jon Santiago, the highest-ranking state veterans official in the Commonwealth, spoke about the role of veterans and the sacrifices they make on behalf of our freedoms. Secretary Santiago talked about the challenges that some veterans have had transitioning back to civilian life. He stated, “I want to serve those who served us.”

Norfolk County Sheriff Patrick McDermott did a memorable version of “God Bless America.” He also spoke about a previous generation of McDermott's, known as the "seven McDermott Brothers," all of whom served their country, with five of them serving during World War II.

On display were fascinating storyboards detailing the history of the various military branches, how the 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.”

My hope is that this event, which served as a tribute to all veterans, allowed the veterans who attended to see the gratitude we feel towards those who served and who still serve and left a lasting impact, reminding others of the sacrifices made by the brave men and women of the armed forces.

If you would like a free copy of “We Remember Our Veterans,” please contact our office at the Norfolk Registry of Deeds at (781) 234-3305. We would be delighted to send a copy to you. You can also download a digital version on our website here: https://www.norfolkdeeds.org/news-event/notable-land-records-vol-3

Thank you to all our veterans.