PENTA Communications, Inc. honors Veterans; receives Proclamation from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

WESTBOROUGH, MA _ On May 26, beautiful sunshine greeted Veterans and community members at the 3rd Annual Flag Raising Ceremony hosted by PENTA Communications, Inc., an integrated full service marketing, advertising, web development, social media, and public relations firm, in celebration of Military Appreciation Month. The event took place at PENTA’s corporate headquarters located at 208 Turnpike Road in Westborough.

Students from the Westborough High School Symphonic Band performed patriotic compositions during pre- and post-program activities and throughout the Flag Raising Ceremony. As the ensemble of woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments played in the background, elected officials, community leaders, and the local Veterans being honored for their military service reflected on the sacrifices made by our Armed Forces.

In attendance were Representative Carolyn Dykema, Representative Hannah Kane, and Adam Costello, Director of the Central Massachusetts Veterans’ Service District. On behalf of Secretary Francisco Ureña, Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services Director of Communication to the Secretary Joe Truschelli was present and delivered the Keynote Speech. Members of the Westborough VFW Post 9013 participated in the program and shared their perspectives on our Veterans’ services.

“It was only three years ago and two short weeks before our building dedication, that this event was born,” said Deborah Penta, Founder/CEO of PENTA Communications, Inc. “It was inspired to bring honor to those men and women who served our country, and to serve as a reminder to all of us, that if it weren’t for their service, we would not live in a land of freedom and a nation which opens doors of opportunities for all, regardless of age, race, or color.”

Penta asked those who had served or currently serve in the Armed Forces to stand, and recognized them for their commitment and service to America. Penta expressed appreciation for the struggles they may have endured during their times of service, for putting America first, and for making it possible to live in a country that values the freedom of all its people.

Penta introduced Keynote Speaker Joe Truschelli, who served in the Massachusetts Air National Guard for 15 years and was awarded the Air Force Achievement Medal.

“These men and women gave the gift of life. They gave up their moments. Moments where they could have kissed their spouse. Moments where they could have achieved success. Moments of holding their newborn child,” said Truschelli.

In commemoration of the 50^th anniversary of the Vietnam War, Truschelli invited the Vietnam Veterans in attendance to the stage, to receive pins honoring their service.

Representative Dykema highlighted the Massachusetts Fallen Heroes Memorial, the largest tribute in the country to be dedicated to fallen Soldiers of the Iraq and the Afghanistan Wars.

“It’s an honor and a privilege to recognize the service of all our Veterans here today, from every branch of our military. Regardless of how you chose to serve, whether in the Marines, the Army, the Navy, the Air Force, or the Coast Guard, most importantly you chose to serve, and in doing so, you set yourselves apart,” said Representative Dykema.

Representative Kane applauded PENTA for holding the event and for ensuring that the town of Westborough consistently honors those who have nobly served our country.

Costello spoke to the differences he saw in the community after emerging from many years of military service, and the importance of regaining a community spirit. “We have almost forgotten to move together as a single unit,” Costello said. “When I look at the American Flag we are going to raise here today, I see seven red stripes, I see six white stripes, I see a field of blue, and I see 50 individual stars, but I see one flag.”

The Veterans lead a procession to the courtyard for the Flag Raising Ceremony, and all in attendance were invited to place one of the small American flags given to every guest on PENTA’s front lawn, in honor of the individuals who heroically served in the United States Military.

Governor Charlie Baker and Lt. Governor Karyn Polito honored the Firm with a Memorial Day Proclamation from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for its continued efforts in acknowledging and honoring service men and women throughout the state.

To view event coverage, please visit http://bit.ly/1XSzpD9.