Foxborough Honors Veterans With Global War On Terror Monument

FOXBOROUGH, MA — A symbol of gratitude was dedicated to the men and women from Foxborough who have enlisted in the armed services for the past 17 years Friday.

The Global War on Terror memorial at the common was revealed during a special dedication ceremony. The memorial is unique in that it commemorates the soldiers from a conflict that remains ongoing.

"It’s not public anymore, you don’t see it on the face of Fox News or CNN. Not a lot of people still think we are at war, but we are," Foxborough Veterans Service Officer Michael Johns said.

Johns added during the ceremony that the design of the five-sided memorial was done to represent the Pentagon, which was attacked on 9/11 and for the five branches of the military. On each side, a branch of the armed services is listed along with all the Foxborough residents who served in that branch during the conflict. More names will be added in the future, according to Johns.

"This memorial symbolizes the blood, sweat, and tears the citizens of Foxborough have shed in the War on Terror. These names are here without prejudice because each name answered the call in a time of war," Foxborough resident and former Marine Phil Giardino said.

Veterans whose service started after Sept. 11, 2011 can be listed on the monument if discharge papers have Foxborough listed as the home of record.

About $5,200 worth of work remains for the monument, including the construction of concrete around the monument, landscaping, and lighting.

Contributions to the monument and those interested in adding their name can do so by contacting the Veterans' Services Department.

Below is the full ceremony from Friday night:

Image Credit: Dan Libon