Governor Healey Celebrates 2nd Annual Military Appreciation Day at the Massachusetts State House

Governor Healey Celebrates 2nd Annual Military Appreciation Day at the Massachusetts State House   

BOSTON – Today, Governor Maura Healey joined Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, Veterans Services Secretary Eric Goralnick, Veterans Services Deputy Secretary Andrea Gayle-Bennett and members of the Legislature to celebrate the 2nd Annual Military Appreciation Day in the House Chamber at the Massachusetts State House. Hosted by the Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS) in collaboration with the Massachusetts Legislature, the event recognized the contributions of veterans, active-duty service members and military families from across Massachusetts.  

The Healey-Driscoll Administration created Military Appreciation Day in May 2025 to honor those who proudly serve both our country and communities. 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 family member or advocate—to be honored during the ceremony. This year’s 136 honorees were recognized and presented with an official Governor’s citation and a challenge coin in appreciation for their service.  

 “Military Appreciation Day is about recognizing the people across Massachusetts who step up to serve something bigger than themselves,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Our veterans, service members and military families strengthen our communities every single day through their leadership, sacrifice and commitment to others. As an administration, we are committed to making Massachusetts the best state in the country for veterans and military families, from transforming care at our Veterans Homes to expanding services and support across the state. We are proud to honor this year’s recipients and grateful for all they have done, and continue to do, for Massachusetts and our country.” 

 “As the daughter of a U.S. Navy veteran, my respect and gratitude for our veterans, active-duty service members, and their families runs deep," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “While we can never fully repay our debt, we can ensure the sacrifices of those have worn the uniform, and the families who have stood beside them, are remembered and recognized.”  

“It was a privilege to stand before those who have given so much, including members of the Gold Star Wives and Families,” said Veterans Services Secretary Eric Goralnick. “As we reflect on the service of our honorees today, we are reminded of our shared responsibility to stand by them—ensuring they have the resources, respect, and opportunities they deserve—not just today, but every day.” 

“On Military Appreciation Day, we honor the courage and sacrifice of the brave women and men who have served our nation in uniform,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “As the daughter of a veteran, I know the deep sense of duty and service that military families carry with them every day. We are also reminded of our solemn responsibility to care for the veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country, and to ensure they receive the support and respect they have earned. On behalf of a grateful Senate, thank you to every active member of the military, every veteran, and every family member who has given their life to service.” 

“The House was honored to host the second annual Military Appreciation Day in the House Chamber,” said House Speaker Ronald J Mariano (D-Quincy). “This 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 Brig. Gen. George ‘Chris’ Hackler, Deputy Commanding General of the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) and Senior Commander of the U.S. Army Natick Soldier Systems Center, where he serves as the primary DEVCOM representative conducting outreach in New England. A highly decorated military leader, Brig. Gen. Hackler spoke about the lessons he learned through service and leadership and finding purpose after service. 

The program also featured a powerful performance of the National Anthem by SGT Amy Fichera, 215th Army Band, MA National Guard. 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.  

Military Appreciation Month observances conclude on Monday, May 25, with formal Memorial Day ceremonies at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemeteries at Agawam and Winchendon.  

The Healey-Driscoll Administration has made historic investments to strengthen services, improve care, and rebuild trust with the veteran community across Massachusetts.  

Over the past three years, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has:  

Transformed the Veterans Homes in Chelsea and Holyoke, achieving full state and federal licensure, strengthening leadership, and improving quality of care. 

Increased staffing, implemented modern electronic medical records systems, and established new quality improvement programs to ensure better outcomes for veterans. 

Secured historic funding for the Veterans Homes, including unprecedented investments to support long-term sustainability and high-quality care. 

Launched the End Veteran Homelessness initiative, making the largest dedicated investment in state history to connect veterans with stable housing. 

Funded the construction for dozens of affordable units dedicated to veterans through partnerships with MassHousing. 

Enacted the HERO Act, delivering nation-leading benefits for veterans and military families, including expanded financial support and access to services   

Launched the Massachusetts Veteran Ready Business program, certifying employers committed to hiring veterans and connecting them to job fairs, hiring resources, and employment opportunities. 

Provided landmark grants to veteran community organizations, supporting mental health peer support and suicide prevention programs statewide. 

Expanded the Statewide Advocacy for Veterans Empowerment (SAVE) program, strengthening peer outreach and ensuring equitable access to support across all regions of the state. 

The Healey-Driscoll Administration remains committed to ensuring that every veteran in Massachusetts has access to the care, support, and opportunities they deserve. 

To view the full list of 2026 Military Appreciation Day honorees, click here.