10/30/2026
Today was a meaningful reminder of the importance of preserving our history and passing it on to the next generation.
I was honored to speak as Chairman of the Dracut School Committee at the dedication of the Dracut High School courtyard, commemorating the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence, and recognizing the 439 Dracut patriots who served in the American Revolution.
May their legacy continue to inspire generations of Dracut students. God Bless America and God Bless Dracut. 🇺🇸⚓️
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Remarks delivered at today’s dedication:
Good afternoon everyone,
On behalf of the Dracut School Committee, I want to thank each and every one of you for taking time out of your day to honor the legacy and sacrifice of the 439 Dracut patriots who served in the American Revolution. I would also like to extend a special thank-you to all those joining us today who have served in our nation's armed forces.
If you don’t mind, I’d also like to take a moment to recognize Dr. Rebecca Duda, for initiating the idea of today’s dedication.
As one of Dracut’s own local historians and a former Dracut teacher, Dr. Duda understands the importance of preserving our local history and ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to learn from it.
I’d also like to recognize Mr. Philippe Thibault, a lifelong resident of Dracut, whose generosity and dedication to civic responsibility has helped create a lasting tribute for these patriots. Through his selfless donation, generations of Dracut High School students will have a place to learn about and reflect on the principles that helped shape our nation and our Town of Dracut. Thank you both for your commitment to making this dedication possible.
Today is about more than dedicating a plaque. It is about remembering the individuals who came before us, recognizing the sacrifices they made, and understanding the responsibility we have to preserve their stories. These Dracut patriots were part of a defining moment in our nation's history. They stood at a time when the future of our country was uncertain.
They were members of our community. They came from families and neighborhoods much like those we know today. They had lives, responsibilities, and loved ones, yet they answered a call to serve something greater than themselves. As a community, we have a responsibility to ensure that their sacrifice is never forgotten.
My hope is that when our students see this plaque, they will be reminded that our community once stood together, bringing people from different backgrounds together in pursuit of a common cause.
This plaque helps take our students’ education beyond the classroom walls.
History is more than stories in a textbook or a quote from a founding father. History is all around us, and today we ensure our Dracut students know just how deep our town’s patriotic roots go.
On behalf of the Dracut School Committee, thank you for joining us as we honor the sacrifices of these patriots, and continue to remember them for generations to come.
Thank you.
