Paul V. Burke, a 1972 graduate of Milton High School and retired Colonel of the US Marine Corps will be the keynote speaker at this year’s Memorial Day Observance, Monday, May 25th.
Colonel Burke enlisted in the military after graduating from Loyola University in Montreal, Canada, serving first as a member of the infantry and then transferring to the air wing division of the Marines.
Colonel Burke has served in Iraq, Afghanistan, Bosnia and Panama, retiring in 2012. Among his many commendations, he has received the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Air Medal, Meritorious Service Medal and the Joint Services Commendation Medal. Colonel Burke presently resides in New Jersey with his family.
Milton resident Hyman Levy, a WW II veteran who served in the 9th infantry division, North African Campaign where he was wounded in combat in 1943, will be honored at this year’s service with the presentation of a purple heart and a formal citation that is being awarded 72 years after his military service was completed.
Services will begin at the Town Green in front of Town Hall @ 9:30AM with a Flag raising and Wreath laying ceremony by members of the American Legion.
Shortly after this ceremony, Legion members, Auxiliary Police and Fire officials, elected officials, members of Milton’s clergy, the Milton High School band, along with other members of Milton’s community will proceed down Canton Avenue and Centre Street to Milton Cemetery.
Services at the Cemetery will begin at 10:00AM. Welcoming remarks will be given by Frank Stout of American Legion Post 114, Selectman David T. Burnes and Joseph M. Reardon, Chairman of the Cemetery Trustees.
Featured speakers will include State Representative Walter F. Timilty, with the keynote address being given by Retired Colonel Paul Burke of the US Marine Corps Wing, followed by the medal pinning ceremony honoring Mr. Levy.
Residents of Milton, friends and family are warmly invited to the Memorial Day Observance which pays tribute to those men and women who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country.