Rep. John Velis, right, posing with the award a Gov. Charlie Baker, left.
WESTFIELD—Representative John Velis was honored for his work with veterans this week by a state-wide veterans group.
The Massachusetts Veterans’ Service Officers Association (MVSOA) named Velis their legislator of the year this past Wednesday, during their 24th annual Legislative Luncheon. The group honored Velis due to the work that he has done for the veteran community, both in Westfield and across the state.
“He is a great representative for veterans, not only is he a representative but he has also served, he truly is committed to taking care of veterans,” Jerry Parisella, house chairman of Veterans Committee and Beverly Representative, said of Velis.
The Massachusetts Veterans’ Service Officers Association award that was presented to John Velis (D-Westfield) as their legislator of the year. (Photo courtesy of the office of State Rep. John Velis)
The honor for Velis comes after a year where Velis was the face of the movement and rallies to get the American flag raised again at Hampshire College following President Donald Trump’s election.
During the Hampshire College rallies, Velis was seen on several national television outlets, including the FOX News program FOX and Friends.
In addition to the Hampshire College rallies, Velis has been active in many facets of veteran assistance, including finding shelter for homeless veterans and working with veterans who struggle with mental illness, including PTSD. He also was the lead on the Stolen Valor Act, which made it illegal to impersonate a veteran and receive benefits, as well as several bills related to exempting veterans’ vehicles from tolls.
“It’s the holy grail of veteran’s awards and it’s a validation,” Velis said.
Velis added that while it’s an honor, it is about the veterans.
“We owe our service members everything,” he said. “I’m just out there to do the right thing.”
