War memorial honors veterans

WESTFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Western Massachusetts newest war memorial was dedicated Sunday at Stanley Park in Westfield.

The many thousands of people who visit Stanley Park each year, can now pause at this memorial and reflect on the sacrifices of so many who served their country.

For the first time at any of the Springfield area war memorials, honor is being paid to veterans of the Merchant Marines, along with the other services.

"My great uncle, Lou Gosselin, was a Merchant Marine, and to see the Merchant Marines finally being honored, its truly a wonderful tribute," said Jeff Gosselin of Westfield.

This war memorial at Stanley Park had been in the planning stages for many years, and its dedication was a source of pride for the many veterans who took part in the ceremony.

One Vietnam veteran told 22News, he thinks war memorials are necessary, no matter how many. "Yes, we need more than one, there's not enough of them. Just to keep the history going at least.  I hope it keeps the history going, as why this country's free," said Vietnam Veteran Les Eldridge.

Through a series of gifts and donations over the years, this war memorial at Stanley Park finally became reality.

The memorial is front and center, there for all to see, close to the front entrance of the legendary Westfield park.