Today, West Roxbury unveils a captivating tribute to Captain Tom Kelley, a decorated war hero and Medal of Honor recipient who has inspired countless Americans over the years. A magnificent mural has been commissioned by the city, seeking to add to the fabric of the community and celebrate the life of this true hero. The mural stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication and service to his country, as reported by City of Boston's official website.
Mayor Michelle Wu proclaimed September 7, as "Captain Thomas Kelley Day," acknowledging the contributions he has made to the local community and his exceptional 30-year career in the U.S. Navy. The grand ceremony saw attendance of important figures such as Boston's Veterans Services Commissioner Robert Santiago, the Mayor's Office of Arts & Culture, the Community Engagement Cabinet, Massachusetts Secretary of Veterans' Services Jon Santiago, and West Roxbury community members.
During the Vietnam war, Captain Kelley's act of selfless bravery in 1969 won him the nation's highest military honor, the Medal of Honor. He led eight river assault boats on a mission to rescue American troops when one craft became disabled. With immense courage, Captain Kelley ordered the remaining seven boats to form a defensive circle around the helpless boat and put his own craft directly in the line of enemy fire. A rocket-propelled grenade struck his boat, causing him severe head injuries, but through sheer determination, he managed to transfer orders to his men and ensure the safe evacuation of the boats before calling for his own medical assistance.
Fittingly, President Nixon awarded the Medal of Honor to Captain Kelley on May 14, 1970, at the White House. Post-retirement, Captain Kelley did not shy away from dutiful service and went on to work for the Department of Defense and later as Secretary of the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services.
According to Boston.gov, the city recently dedicated the beginning of Route 20 as the Medal of Honor Highway and even had the honor of including Captain Kelley in the dedication ceremony. The beautifully-rendered mural is a testament to the values and achievements of their communities and aims to share their stories for generations to come.
Created by a Roslindale resident, artist Laura DeDonato Wiatt, the mural is situated on the side of the Boston Ale House, a prominent location at the corner of Centre and Hastings Streets in West Roxbury. The depiction includes both Captain Kelley and the yet-to-be-built USS Thomas G. Kelley, visually linking the hero to his legacy. Laura DeDonato Wiatt was approached by Dan Hudson, West Roxbury's Liaison in the Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Services. The artist remarked that it was an honor to paint a portrait of the local hero, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to work on such an inspiring project.
