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08-06-2005

Page history last edited by PBworks 17 years, 6 months ago

August 6, 2005

HEALEY SIGNS BILL TO HONOR MASS NATIONAL GUARD

 

 

WESTFIELD – Lieutenant Governor Kerry Healey today paid tribute to the Massachusetts National Guard by signing legislation that renames a stretch of state Route 20 as Massachusetts National Guard Way. Earlier in the day, Healey attended send-off ceremonies at Westover Air Force Base in Chicopee for 150 National Guardsmen being deployed overseas in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

 

Healey signed the legislation along a section of Route 20. Besides renaming a portion of the road, the bill also designates two bridges on Route 20 for the two arms of the Massachusetts National Guard. The first span, which crosses the Westfield River, will be known as the Massachusetts Air National Guard Bridge. The second bridge, which crosses Powdermill Brook, will be known as Massachusetts Army National Guard Bridge.

 

“Whether in times of war or peace, military service is one of the most solemn and important commitments any American can make,” said Healey. “We want the members and families of the National Guard, and the individuals who make up the 181st Engineer Battalion, to know that we appreciate their service and all they do for their state and country.”

 

The measure was sponsored by State Senator Michael R. Knapik (R-Westfield) and State Representative Donald F. Humason Jr. (R-Westfield).

 

“We’re honored today to be joined by Lieutenant Governor Healey as we officially designate the Massachusetts National Guard Way in the city of Westfield,” said Knapik. The Romney Administration has been instrumental in providing the funding for this $15 million project. This is an appropriate way to memorialize the service and sacrifice of our Commonwealth’s citizen soldiers.”

 

“The dedication of these structures provides apt recognition for our servicemen and women and it was an honor to assist in shepherding this bill through the Legislature,” said Humason. “I am most pleased and thankful that Lieutenant Governor Healey is here to sign this special bill, the final step in naming a long awaited and nearly completed bridge. We can all be proud of the good work of our National Guards, marked by this special designation.”

 

“On behalf of the men and women of the Massachusetts National Guard, I wish to express our gratitude to Senator Knapik and Representative Humason for sponsoring this bill, and our special thanks to Lieutenant Governor Healey for signing it into law,” said Brigadier General Oliver J. Mason Jr., the Adjutant General of the Massachusetts National Guard.

 

“As people now travel on Route 20 in Westfield, I hope they will pause for a moment to recognize the service and sacrifice of the dedicated soldiers and airmen of the Massachusetts National Guard, and remember our guardsmen who serve overseas defending our freedom.”

 

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