Letter recognizes residents, veterans, town officials, students, and volunteers who honored fallen service members despite rainy conditions during Reading’s Memorial Day ceremonies
To the Residents of the Town of Reading,
On behalf of the Reading Veterans Service Office and our entire veterans community, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude and heartfelt appreciation to everyone who participated in and supported this year’s Memorial Day parade and ceremonies.
Memorial Day is far more than a holiday or long weekend. It is a solemn day of remembrance dedicated to honoring the brave American men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation and the freedoms we enjoy each and every day. Their courage, devotion to duty, and willingness to give all for this country can never be forgotten.
Despite the pouring rain, the residents of Reading once again demonstrated the true spirit of patriotism, respect, and community. Seeing so many families, veterans, public officials, students, and residents come together under difficult weather conditions to honor our fallen heroes was both moving and inspiring. Your presence served as a powerful reminder that the sacrifices of our servicemen and women continue to be remembered and appreciated by this grateful community.
I would like to offer special thanks to Town Manager Jayne Wellman and Vice Chair of the Select Board Karen Rose Gillis for their continued support of our veterans and their participation in this year’s ceremonies.
A sincere thank you also goes to the Reading Memorial High School Band for their outstanding musical performances that added dignity and pride to the day’s events.
We are especially grateful to our distinguished guest speakers, CAPT Steven Rock, US Navy Retired, and CAPT Brendan Gray, US Navy Retired, whose heartfelt remarks reminded us all of the true meaning and importance of Memorial Day.
Thank you as well to Mr. Zack Dhaliwal, Staff Director for Representative Richard Haggerty’s office, for participating and representing the Commonwealth in support of our veterans community.
I would also like to recognize the tremendous efforts of the Reading Parks and Cemetery staff, whose invaluable assistance, coordination, setup, and breakdown efforts helped make the ceremonies possible. Their professionalism and dedication behind the scenes ensured that every location was prepared with the respect and dignity our fallen heroes deserve.
Finally, to the residents of Reading — thank you. Thank you for standing together in the rain to honor those who gave their lives so that we may continue to live in freedom. Your support reflects the very best of our community and serves as a lasting tribute to the generations of Americans who sacrificed everything for this nation.
May we always remember those who gave all for our country, and may we never take their sacrifices or our freedoms for granted.
With sincere gratitude and respect,
William (Will) Valliere
Command Sergeant Major, US Army Retired
Reading Veterans Service Officer
