BROCKTON (Massachusetts) – INFOHAITI.NET – By Yves Cajuste – For the first time, the City of Brockton officially recognized the 18 residents who died in military service during the Vietnam War. A public ceremony was held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the city’s Veterans Memorial building. The event brought together families, elected officials, veterans, and local residents.
“Today is not a day of celebration, but one of reflection, to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice so we may live in freedom,” said Brockton Mayor Robert F. Sullivan. He referred to the 18 servicemen as “American heroes” and stated that recognition of their service should be ongoing.
Mayor Sullivan also acknowledged the role of Brockton resident Dennis Hursey, who initiated the commemoration. A graduate of Brockton High School, Class of 1965, Mr. Hursey had personal connections with several of the men being honored. “Some of them used to come to my house, and I to theirs. They were friends, almost like brothers,” he said.
Mr. Hursey noted that the tribute had been delayed. “This should have been done 30 years ago. But today, we’re correcting that oversight. That’s what makes Brockton a ‘City of Champions’—not only for its sports achievements, but for its commitment to shared values and collective memory,” he said.
He also shared a quote from his father, a World War II veteran: “The true hero is the one who doesn’t come back. We must always remember them.”
One part of the ceremony included the reading of the names of the 18 Brockton residents who died in Vietnam, along with their military ranks and branches of service. The reading was conducted by three veterans: Brockton Police Chief Brenda Pérez, a U.S. Army veteran; City Council President Jeffrey Thompson, a former Navy serviceman; and Moises Rodrigues, former Mayor and current At-Large City Councilor, also a Navy veteran. A minute of silence followed.
State legislators also took part in the event. Senator Michael Brady and Representatives Michelle DuBois, Rita Mendes, and Bridget Plouffe presented certificates of recognition to the families of the deceased. “No law or policy can ever match the sacrifice made by these young men,” said Senator Brady. “But by honoring them, we ensure their memory lives on.”
Other local officials in attendance included:
- At-Large City Councilors: Winthrop Farewell (a former Mayor and Police Chief) and David Texeira
- Ward 4 City Councilor: Susan J. Nicastro
- School Committee Members: Judy Sullivan (Ward 5) and Tim Sullivan (Ward 7)
- Fire Chief Brian F. Nardelli and several members of the Brockton Fire Department
The ceremony concluded with a prayer led by Chaplain John Kuplast of VFW Post 1046. In his remarks, he highlighted the link between remembrance and a commitment to peace: “We honor with reverence the sacrifices made by those who served our nation. May their memory guide us toward a future without war for generations to come.”
The 18 Brockton Soldiers Who Died in the Vietnam War:
Milton Richard Allery, Ronald E. Babsford, Robert Leon Baas, Michael John Cadarette, James Francis Connor Jr., Robert Alfred O’Donnell, William David Crowley, Danny Eric Goodwin, Timothy Holster, John Richard Holligan, Hugh Richard Johnson Jr., Dearborn Fred Johnson, Paul Michael Glenda, Bruce Edward Martin, William Francis Mullen, Robert Lawrence Rodrick, Vladislav Stemuski, Donald Delmore Patryk.
