As Veterans Day approaches, Massachusetts has taken steps to honor veterans and their families through the rededication of the Lynn Heritage State Park, now named Veterans Memorial Park, and the renaming of the Massachusetts Gold Star Families Memorial Bridge. These efforts, led by the Healey-Driscoll Administration, also include plans to improve accessibility and remembrance at state parks across the Commonwealth, as per the Department of Conservation & Recreation release.
Governor Maura Healey emphasized the importance of recognizing those who served, while Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll shared her personal connection to military service. The park and bridge in Lynn are intended to serve as lasting tributes to veterans and their families.
The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) announced a $15 million project to rebuild the park’s boardwalk, reinforce seawalls, and make the area more resilient to extreme weather. DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle noted that parking fees will be waived on Veterans Day and additional veteran parking will be provided at state parks.
Other historic sites, such as Fort Independence at Castle Island and the Massachusetts Veterans War Memorial Tower in Adams, continue to highlight the state’s military history. Lynn Mayor Jared Nicholson expressed gratitude for the city being chosen as a site of statewide recognition.
Representatives from veterans’ organizations, including Sarah Sweeney of the Military Friends Foundation and Robin Abbott of the MA/RI American Gold Star Mothers, underscored the significance of the new dedications as lasting symbols of remembrance and appreciation.
