Over the past two months, VFW Post 1272 and American Legion Post 165 have been buzzing with activity as Belmont came together to honor and support its veterans.
On November 7, veterans visited Chenery Middle School and the Burbank and Butler Elementary Schools for Veterans appreciation programs, where enthusiastic students, thoughtful questions, and homemade artwork had the guests feeling, in Commander Gaudette’s words, “like rock stars.” Afterwards, Veterans Service Officer (VSO) Bob Upton hosted a warm, informal lunch at Waverley VFW Post 1272, giving students, staff, and veterans a chance to keep the conversations going.
The momentum continued on November 10 with a community breakfast organized by VSO Upton and hosted by East Cambridge Savings Bank at the Beech Street Center. Bank staff and Beech Street Center staff served breakfast with smiles, the Belmont Hill School Choir filled the room with music, and Ann Marie Mahoney captivated the audience with stories of her family’s military service stretching from Custer’s Last Stand to the present day.
Veterans Day itself was marked at St. Luke’s Church with a moving Mass celebrated by Fr. John Sheridan, featuring a formal posting of the colors by PC Bruce Palhm and his Color Guard, a candle‑lighting ceremony honoring veterans from World War I through the War on Terror, a final candle for world peace, a rifle salute, and coffee and donuts hosted by Past President of the Ladies Auxiliary, Joann Engracia. On December 6, the community’s respect extended to its cemeteries, as JVC Bob Johnson and PC Joe Henebury retired flags at Highland Meadow while VSO Upton and the Belmont Hill School Veterans Club did the same at Grove Street, ensuring every veteran’s resting place was treated with care.
Inside Post 1272, there is just as much forward motion. Members recently completed an updated lounge, created a new computer workstation for veterans who need internet access or help with online paperwork, and installed improved AV equipment to support meetings, presentations, and community programs.
A successful clothing drive brought together members, their families, and neighbors to collect much‑needed items for local veterans, turning the Post into a busy hub of generosity and teamwork.
Looking ahead,
Post 1272 is excited to welcome volunteers for upcoming school outreach, memorial details, community drives, and continued Post improvements—inviting anyone who wants to give back, learn more, or simply say “thank you” to join in the work of supporting those who have served. Donations are also gratefully accepted!
If you have thoughts or ideas for a project, please reach out to Comrade Joe Henebury or Bob Johnson.
