Wilmington- A Tribute to its Soldiers- By Evan Sperlinga and Brad Aldrich

Wilmington showing its pride for its soldiers
with a "Welcome Home" Sign

Wilmington MA takes pride in its soldiers, and the United States Military. I believe this to be one of the most patriotic towns in all of Massachusetts. One step outside of the High School and you are greeted with a parade of American flags that line each telephone pole a mile down the street. These flags that face the town common point to a beautiful town memorial that showcases the veterans and men that fought in previous wars. The small circular memorial is spread with flowers that surrounds a large American flag pole in the center. The flag lies in the center of town displaying our patriotism toward our country and its people. Directly across this monument lies a red white and blue sign. Upon closer inspection you are able to see that the sign is a “Welcome Home” sign to soldiers who are coming home from battle and soldiers who have just started out on their journey in the military.

Behind this sign lies a small but important monument. The monument is a short mulch patch with a stone headstone in the middle. In front of the headstone is a red, white, and blue wreath that draws the eye to the words on the stone. The words read   “Dedicated to the townsmen who answered the call to arms and marched to Meriam’s Corner, Concord, and engaged the redcoats on 19 April, 1775.” This one quote on the center of town shows how devoted our townspeople are to our country and our nation's military.

Wilmington 4th of July Building

Monument in the center of
the common honoring soldiers

The town of Wilmington is also home to many programs that help veterans that many other towns aren't a part of. I remember writing letters to soldiers in need, starting in elementary school all the way through high school. There's also another program that's called ipods for wounded veterans where you are able to donate money to give wounded veterans ipods 

and or gift cards.

Wilmington's 4th of July celebration is always special as well. We even have a 4th of July building set up next to our town common. Wilmington always plans this holiday in advance to provide the town with a great celebration. Our town revolves around this holiday and never fails to make the day memorable. Wilmington provides these events in order to show the true importance of the 4th of July. Our town shows the importance of the independence of America and the importance of those who serve in an exciting way. Wilmington provides towns of all over with an annual carnival, fireworks and celebrations on the common.

Wilmington takes pride in its soldiers and its town. With examples of its patriotism around every corner, Wilmington is truly a place of memory and respect for our military.