Marblehead Resident Honored At State House Military Appreciation Day

MARBLEHEAD, MA — Marblehead resident David Rodgers was honored at the State House this week as part of the legislator's first-ever Military Appreciation Day,

State Sen. Brendan Crighton and State Rep. Jenny Armini honored Rodgers of Marblehead at the ceremony held in the Massachusetts State House's historic House Chamber.

Each legislator was invited to nominate a member of their local military community — whether a veteran, active-duty service member, National Guard, Reservist, or military spouse — to be honored during the ceremony.

More than 125 Bay State residents who exemplify commitment to service and community were recognized from districts across Massachusetts.

"We are proud to include David as an honoree during the first Military Appreciation Day at the State House," Crighton said. "David's service to our country as a member of the United States Navy, and to our veterans as the former Veterans Service Agent in Marblehead, are exemplary of his commitment to his country and his community."

"David Rodgers has left an indelible mark on Marblehead," Armini said. "From his decades of service in the Navy to his tireless advocacy for local veterans, Dave embodies what it means to lead a life of purpose and public service,” said Rep. Jenny Armini. "It's fitting that he is being honored at this inaugural ceremony. He represents the very best of our town and Commonwealth."

The ceremony included remarks from Governor Maura Healey, Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll, Veterans Services Secretary Jon Santiago, Senate President Karen Spilka, and a keynote address by General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr. (Ret.), former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and 36th Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps.

"This event is about gratitude," Gov. Maura Healey said. "We’re here to honor the everyday heroes —veterans, active-duty service members, and military families — whose courage, strength, and commitment continue to shape our state for the better. Military Appreciation Day is now a Massachusetts tradition and one we’ll proudly carry forward each year."

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)