Bedford, Hanscom Community Come Together in Support of Marathon Explosions Victims

When a tragedy of the scale of the Boston Marathon explosions occurs, it's not uncommon to want to know what you can do to help or simply show support for those affected.

Here in Bedford, there was nothing short of a total outpouring of support for those who experienced the horrifying events at the 2013 Boston Marathon. 

The Massachusetts National Guard, headquartered out of Hanscom Air Force Base, had more than 400 National Guardsmen stationed at the Boston Marathon on April 15, according to a press release from the National Guard.

These 400 Guardsmen remained on duty following the two explosions near the finish line of the marathon, assisting local authorities by providing  transportation assets such as busses and helicopters.

All Guardsmen were accounted for and none were reported injured following the explosions, according to the release. 

"Massachusetts National Guard Soldiers and Airmen will continue to assist the City of Boston and civilian law enforcement for as long as needed," said Maj. Gen. L. Scott Rice, The Adjutant General of the Massachusetts National Guard in the release.

By Tuesday, April 16, the National Guard had more than 1000 Guardsmen on duty in Boston assisting with MBTA security and perimeter security to the main area affected by the explosions, according to the release. 

The Bedford Police Department, as a member agency of the North Eastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council, sent Sergeant Patrick Towle, Sergeant Jeffrey Wardwell and Emergency Communication Officer Jeffrey Vinciulla to assist law enforcement in Boston following the explosions, according to Det. Lt. Scott Jones. 

Most flags were flying at half mast around Bedford on April 16, and local business owners were showing their support in a variety of ways.

Dana Strayton, owner of Prince Street Cafe and Bakery, went out and bought the last 30 American flags at iParty and lined the parking lot of her business, at 200 Great Road, with them. 

"I can't believe how it ruined such a wonderful day in Boston," Strayton said. "It's such a catastrophe for such a tradition in Boston."

Strayton, a graduate of Boston University where Marathon Monday is as big a holiday as there is, said she usually watches the marathon in Brookline with her nephews. 

"I really do hope this doesn't scare people away and that people go back next year," Strayton said. 

What are you doing to show your support for those affected by the Boston Marathon explosions? Leave a comment below and let us know.