Honoring Our Veterans

Veterans Day officially began in 1919 at the end of World War I. It continues to be a day when all veterans are recognized for their service to the country. The following photos depict Medford veterans and memorials honoring their service and sacrifice.

Craig Swain was one of the first Medford residents to die in the Vietnam War. He was only 21. His grave is located in the Oak Grove Cemetery.

In October 2007 Medford completed four memorials honoring local veterans who served in every conflict going back to World War II. Over 16,000 names are listed.

Medford Mayor Michael McGlynn and US Senator Edward Markey unveil a plaque bearing the names of Medford veterans who served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Desert Storm during a special dedication ceremony held last year.

Charlotte Contardo and her daughter Arlene look for her name in October 2007. Contardo served in WWII.

About 10,000 Medford residents served in WWII. Three large walls filled with their names are pictured above.

A ribbon created from yellow mums was planted beside the new veterans memorials in 2007.

– InsideMedford.com. Cover photo by Marcus Howard