Haverhill’s Vietnam Memorial Ad Hoc Commission is celebrating the appointment of two new commissioners—and a major fundraising boost—this week as renovations to the memorial at Mill Brook Park continue.
Driscoll Funeral Home’s Patrick Driscoll has become the 14th member of the board tasked with overseeing upgrades to the landmark honoring the city’s Vietnam war dead, Commission Chairman Ralph Basiliere tells WHAV. He joins Haverhill Veterans’ Services Officer Amanda Buckley, who came aboard earlier this summer. Their appointments come shortly after the departure of Vice Chairman Christopher Smardz, Basiliere said.
“We are excited to welcome Patrick and Amanda to our team. Their appointments represent an increase in strategic reach as we continue to honor Haverhill’s Vietnam veterans,” Basiliere told WHAV.
On Wednesday, the Commission held a “Tour of Italy” fundraiser at the Washington Street Garibaldi Club to defray costs for ongoing upgrades to the memorial, raising approximately $11,000. They also served 100 meals to families in need from the Emmaus shelter in conjunction with Mike’s Famous Roast Beef and Pizza.