Rep. Sena honors Meagan Murphy at inaugural State House Military Appreciation Day
The first-annual celebration honored veterans from across the Commonwealth
BOSTON – State Representative Danillo Sena (D - Acton) proudly honored Meagan Murphy of Devens at the first-ever Military Appreciation Day ceremony, held on May 22, 2025 in the Massachusetts State House’s historic House Chamber.
Military Appreciation Day was created by the Healey-Driscoll Administration to establish a lasting annual tradition that brings together local, state, and community leaders to honor those whose service might otherwise go unrecognized. 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 individuals who exemplify commitment to service and community were recognized from districts across Massachusetts.
“Our district has a strong connection to military service, dating all the way back to the American Revolution,” said Rep. Danillo Sena. “I am so glad we were able to honor Meagan Murphy’s service and her incredible work to help veterans in our region. I am thankful for Meagan and for all in our community who have served the country.”
“Being the first to receive this nomination from the 37th Middlesex district is such a privilege and honor,” said Meagan Murphy. “Coming from generations of Veterans I was raised being told ‘soldiers take care of soldiers’ and I carry that in my heart every day as I care for and assist not only service members and fellow veterans but their families and surviving spouses as well. As we enter Memorial Day weekend, a reminder to check on those in your life that have served as well as the surviving family members.”
The ceremony featured remarks from Governor Maura Healey, Lieutenant 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,” said Governor Maura Healey. “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.”
“Massachusetts is home to one of the most vibrant, committed military communities in the country,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This day is about uplifting the stories and contributions of those who have sacrificed so much and showing that their service will never go unrecognized.”
“Every day, I meet veterans and military families who continue to lead, serve, and inspire,” said Secretary Jon Santiago. “As we approach Memorial Day, and during a month dedicated to honoring our military, this event reflects what makes Massachusetts special: a deep respect for service, and a commitment to those who wear the uniform—and those who stand beside them.”
“My father’s service in the United States Army defined his life and deeply shaped my own — and I know the same holds true for thousands of service members and their families across Massachusetts,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “It is a privilege to honor those residents who have dedicated themselves to serving our country, and I am profoundly grateful for their unwavering commitment and sacrifice.”
“It is an honor to host the inaugural Military Appreciation Day in the historic House Chamber,” said Speaker of the House Ronald Mariano. “This new tradition reflects our deep appreciation for the veterans, service members, and military families who strengthen every corner of our Commonwealth.”
The keynote address was delivered by General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr. (Ret.), former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and 36th Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps. A Boston native and one of the most distinguished military leaders in recent history, General Dunford spoke about the legacy of service, leadership, and community and the importance of honoring those who serve across generations.
“It’s an honor to return home to Massachusetts and stand alongside a community so deeply committed to those who serve. Military Appreciation Day reflects something I’ve long believed: that service is not just what we do in uniform—it’s a lifetime of leadership, character, and sacrifice,” said General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr. (Ret.), 19th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. I’m proud to join the Commonwealth in recognizing these remarkable individuals and the values they represent.”
The program also featured a powerful performance of the National Anthem by Springfield native and NBC’s The Voice finalist Michelle Brooks-Thompson. Following the ceremony, honorees and guests were invited to a lunch reception generously donated by the Military Friends Foundation, a Massachusetts nonprofit dedicated to providing support and emergency assistance to military families and families of the fallen.
To view the full list of 2025 Military Appreciation Day honorees, click here.
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