WESTFIELD – Vietnam Veterans of America Westfield Chapter 219 has completed a project in time for Memorial Day to honor veterans from Westfield that were killed in action.
Working on the project for the last three years, four banners are now hanging up from flag poles at Parker Memorial Park in order to honor four veterans. Each banner has a picture of a veteran from Westfield who was killed in action during the Vietnam War. The four men are Daniel Johnson of the Marines, Jeffrey Parent of the Marines, Michael Deane of the Army, and James Zebert of the Army.
Vice President Ron Queipo and President Ken Lafreniere of Vietnam Veterans of America Westfield Chapter 219 stand with the banners at Parker Memorial Park. (Photo by Greg Fitzpatrick)
There is also a stone on the ground that recognizes the four veterans, along with three other veterans of Westfield who served during the Vietnam conflicts. Their names are Gavin Sabadosa of the Air Force, Robert Bocon of the Air Force, and John Earle of the Navy.
This project falls under Hometown Heroes, which is a national organization.
“It’s a project of honor,” said Ron Queipo, who is the Vice President of the Westfield Chapter for Vietnam Veterans of America. “They’re veterans but they’re also friends of us. Westfield is a tight community.”
Along with Queipo, President Ken Lafreniere and other members of the organization have helped make this project a reality. The two individuals expressed their gratitude towards a number of people and organizations. The many thanks go out to Mayor Brian Sullivan, former city councilor Mary O’Connell, DPW Director Dave Billips, City Engineer Mark Cressotti, and everyone at Westfield Gas and Electric.
“It was basically a true group effort,” added Queipo.
Lafreniere and Queipo noted that the banners, hung up this past Tuesday, are able to stay up until after Veterans Day on November 11.
